Myth vs Fact: The Truth Behind The Viral Video On FASTag Exemption

In a recent social media sensation, a video shared by Instagram user Varsha Dhananjay, hailing from Kudremukh and currently residing in Bengaluru, has garnered massive attention. The video, which shows a method to avoid automatic FASTag deductions at toll booths, has captured the interest of viewers and sparked a lively debate.

The video, which has amassed a significant 444k views, 9,329 likes, and 141 comments, shows a method to potentially avoid automatic FASTag deductions at toll booths. In the video, Varsha suggests covering the FASTag area with a phone or other objects, obstructing the scanner's ability to read the tag and generating an error. According to the caption, this method can be used by individuals, those who are legally exempt from toll charges. To pass through a toll booth without automatic deduction, the video suggests presenting proof of exemption.

In the video, Varsha and her companions also shows an approach that involves showing an official ID card to the toll booth operators to claim FASTag exemption. This particular method is premised on the assumption that having a valid ID, in this case, a an official valid ID card was used in order to get exempted from FASTag payments. However, it's essential to note that the legitimacy of this method may vary from one toll booth to another, as toll booths typically require legitimate reasons for exemption.

The video's content has evoked mixed reactions from viewers. While some believe it could be employed for unlawful purposes, it's worth noting that toll booth operators often request official IDs for exemption purposes. In this particular instance, Varsha had used valid ID card to claim exemption.

However, it's crucial to emphasize that this video showcases just one method to potentially bypass FASTag payments, which may not always be reliable or in accordance with toll booth regulations. There are also legitimate ways to obtain exemption from FASTag payments, one of which includes filing an official application.

For those unfamiliar with FASTag, it is an electronic toll collection system based on Radio-Frequency Identification (RFID) technology, introduced by the Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) to reduce congestion and delays at National Highway (NH) toll plazas. FASTag allows vehicles to pass through designated FASTag lanes without stopping, enabling quicker movement of traffic.

The MoRTH has established rules for issuing exempted FASTags to specific categories of vehicles listed as "exempted from paying user fees" under Rule 11 of the National Highways Fees Rules, 2008. To provide clarity to the public, the Ministry has released a list of exempted FASTag vehicles that require a FASTag sticker despite being exempt from fees at NH plazas across India.

Additionally, for those who may have missed the initial application process, there is an option to file an online application for an exempted FASTag. This process is crucial for ensuring that legitimate exemptions are granted and FASTag operates as intended within the bounds of the law.