Nainital Mall Road FASTag system questioned as cash, card and QR toll collection continues

The FASTag system introduced on Nainital’s Mall Road to improve traffic management and reduce queues at the toll barrier has come under scrutiny. Puneet Tandon, president of the Maa Naina Devi Nainital Traders’ Association, alleged that the arrangement is functioning only as a display of implementation.

According to Tandon, motorists are still being charged through cash, credit card machines and QR codes at the toll point. He said this undermines the purpose of introducing FASTag, which was intended to make toll collection more efficient and help ease congestion.

Demand for an on-site inspection

In a press release issued Wednesday, Tandon said the FASTag arrangement had also been raised before the High Powered Committee constituted by the High Court for traffic management. He said that, as a committee member, he had informed the court about the implementation of FASTag.

Tandon has asked senior officials to visit the location and examine how the system is operating in practice. He also called for the arrangement to be made fully effective without delay.

The allegation concerns the gap between the announced FASTag arrangement and the payment methods reportedly being used at the Mall Road toll barrier. The demand for an inspection is aimed at establishing the system’s actual condition and effectiveness on the ground.

Conclusion

Puneet Tandon has questioned the effectiveness of FASTag on Nainital’s Mall Road and urged senior officials to inspect the toll barrier and ensure the system works as intended.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. What issue has been raised about Nainital’s Mall Road FASTag system?

Tandon alleged that FASTag is being presented as implemented, while tolls are still collected through cash, card machines and QR codes.

Q. Who raised the concern?

Puneet Tandon, president of the Maa Naina Devi Nainital Traders’ Association, raised the concern.

Q. Why was FASTag introduced on Mall Road?

It was introduced to improve traffic management and reduce congestion at the toll barrier.

Q. Was the issue raised before a committee?

Yes. Tandon said the matter was raised before the High Powered Committee formed by the High Court for traffic management.

Q. What action has been requested?

Tandon has asked senior officials to inspect the site and make the FASTag system effective.