Alert! NHAI simplifies FASTag KYV process

In a relief to vehicle owners, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has simplified the Know Your Vehicle (KYV) process for FASTag users. The new KYV process was implemented last year in an attempt to prevent any misuse of the FASTag system, but the tedious process became an additional burden on users. Many faced difficulties uploading multiple photos of their vehicles, submitting relevant documents, and navigating the government website.

Beyond that, users also complained about the sudden deactivation of their FASTags at toll gates after failed attempts at KYV verification.

Now, according to revised guidelines issued by the Indian Highways Management Company Limited (IHMCL), an NHAI company, FASTag services will not be discontinued for non-compliant vehicles, and users will be provided sufficient opportunity to complete the KYV process.

New Changes

According to the revised guidelines:

• Side photographs of cars, jeeps, or vans will no longer be required. Only a front picture showing the number plate and FASTag on the windshield needs to be uploaded. Previously, users were asked to upload both front and side photos. The side images were meant to showcase the axles of the vehicle.
• NHAI has stated that provisions will be made to automatically fetch RC details from the government’s VAHAN database when the user enters the vehicle number, chassis number, or mobile number. If multiple vehicles are registered in a single name, the user will be able to choose which vehicle they wish to complete the KYV for.
• Most importantly, FASTags issued before completing KYV will now remain active unless complaints are received about loose tags or misuse. Banks will also send SMS reminders to users to complete the KYV process.

Users Can File Complaints

In case of any query or difficulty, users can file a complaint on the National Highway Helpline number 1033 for any KYV-related issues with their issuing bank. NHAI has also stated that if a user faces difficulty uploading documents for any reason, it will be the responsibility of the bank to contact the customer and complete the KYV process before disconnection.

The new rules have been implemented to strengthen the FASTag ecosystem as India prepares to implement a Multi-Lane Free Flow (MLFF) system, a barrier-less tolling system, at key sections of national highways.