UPI Payments vs. FASTag – which is the better option for paying toll charges?

In recent years, the digital revolution has transformed the way we conduct financial transactions. One significant area that has seen a shift towards digital payments is toll collection on highways and expressways. Traditionally, toll payments involved stopping at toll booths and paying in cash, leading to long queues, traffic congestion, and inefficiency. 

However, with the introduction of digital payment methods such as UPI (Unified Payments Interface) and FASTag, toll payments have become smoother and more convenient. In this blog post, we’ll compare UPI payments-based apps and FASTag to determine which is the better option for paying toll charges.

This way, you know if you need to buy FASTag or a UPI app that supports facilities such as online wallets will do just fine.

Understanding UPI Payments

UPI is a real-time payment system developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI). It allows users to transfer funds between bank accounts using their smartphones instantly. UPI has gained immense popularity due to its simplicity, speed, and interoperability across different banks and payment service providers.

 The Advantages of UPI Payments for Toll Charges:

1. Convenience: UPI payments offer the convenience of making toll payments directly from your bank account using a mobile app. There’s no need to carry cash or search for exact change, making the process hassle-free.
2. Instant Transactions: UPI transactions are processed in real-time, ensuring that toll payments are completed instantly without any delays.
3. Wide Acceptance: Most toll booths across the country now accept UPI payments, making it a widely accessible option for toll charges.
4. No Additional Hardware Required: Unlike FASTag, UPI payments do not require any additional hardware or stickers on vehicles. All you need is a smartphone with an internet connection and a UPI-enabled banking app.

 Understanding FASTag

FASTag is an electronic toll collection system that uses RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) technology to enable automatic deduction of toll charges as vehicles pass through toll booths. It is affixed to the windshield of vehicles and linked to the user’s prepaid or savings account.

 The Advantages of FASTag for Toll Charges:

1. Faster Processing: FASTag enables faster toll payments as vehicles can pass through toll booths without stopping, leading to reduced congestion and smoother traffic flow.
2. Cashless Transactions: FASTag eliminates the need for cash transactions, reducing the risk of theft and providing a more secure payment method.
3. Potential Discounts: Some toll plazas offer discounts for vehicles equipped with FASTag, encouraging adoption and promoting seamless travel experiences.
4. Automatic Recharge: FASTag can be linked to the user’s bank account for automatic replenishment, ensuring that there’s always sufficient balance for toll payments.

 Which Option is Better?

UPI payments and FASTag offer advantages in terms of convenience, speed, and efficiency when paying toll charges. The choice between the two ultimately depends on individual preferences and requirements.

– For occasional travellers or those who prefer the flexibility of using their smartphones for payments, UPI might be the preferred option due to its wide acceptance and ease of use.

– For frequent travellers or those looking for a more automated and seamless experience, FASTag could be the better choice as it enables automatic toll deductions and faster processing at toll booths.

In conclusion, both UPI payments and FASTag have transformed the toll collection process, offering users convenient and efficient alternatives to traditional cash payments. Whether you opt for UPI or FASTag, embracing digital payment methods for toll charges can significantly enhance your travel experience while contributing to smoother traffic flow on highways and expressways. Ultimately, the best option is the one that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.

Choose the Airtel Thanks app to buy your next FASTag online or pay using the UPI QR code scanner, with Airtel Payments Bank.