Science Behind FASTag: RFID Tech, Satellite Tolling & NavIC Challenges

FASTag: India’s RFID-Powered Toll Revolution
Basics:
Mandatory since 2021; managed by NPCI/NHAI.
Uses passive RFID tags on windshields (no battery needed).
How It Works:
Toll plazas emit radio waves → activate tag → deducts payment from linked account.
Range: ~30 ft (vs. active RFID’s 300 ft).

ANPR-FASTag: Next-Gen Tolling (2024)
Hybrid System: Combines Automatic Number Plate Recognition + FASTag:
High-speed cameras capture license plates as backup.
Enables barrier-free movement – no stopping at plazas.
Goal: Reduce congestion; pilot at select tolls.

Satellite Tolling (GNSS) & NavIC Delay
Why Deferred? Privacy risks and foreign satellite dependence.
GNSS Proposal:
Use on-board units (OBUs) + satellites to calculate distance-based tolls.
Requires NavIC (India’s indigenous system) for data security.
NavIC Status:
7-satellite constellation (5 operational after atomic clock failures).
Born from Kargil War lessons (US denied GPS access).
Dual services: Civilian (SPS) and Military (RS).


Key Exam Takeaways
FASTag RFID: Passive tags, radio wave communication.
ANPR Integration: License plate + FASTag combo for zero-stopping.
GNSS Hold: Pending NavIC readiness and privacy safeguards.
NavIC: 1999 Kargil origin; IRNSS-1A (2013); 5/7 satellites functional.
 

Sample Q&A for Competitive Exams
Q: What technology enables FASTag’s contactless tolling?
A: Passive RFID (activated by toll plaza radio waves).
Q: Why was GNSS-based tolling deferred in India?
A: Privacy concerns and dependence on non-Indian satellites.
Q: Which war prompted India to develop NavIC?
A: 1999 Kargil War (US restricted GPS access).
Q: What does ANPR add to FASTag systems?
A: License plate recognition for barrier-free tolling.
Q: How many operational satellites does NavIC currently have?
A: 5 (of 7 launched).