Automobile
How To Get M Tag Motorway Pakistan: The Complete Guide (2024)
M Tag is now a mandatory requirement for all vehicles using Pakistan’s motorways, especially after the announcement by the National Highway and Motorway Police (NHMP) in December 2021. This decision was made to ease traffic flow, reduce congestion at toll plazas, and minimize environmental pollution. The process to acquire M-Tag is straightforward but needs to be followed properly to avoid any fines and travel disruptions. Here’s your complete guide on how to get M Tag Motorway Pakistan in 2024.
What is an M-Tag?
M-Tag is an RFID-based electronic toll collection system that allows vehicles to pass through motorway toll booths without stopping. This technology enables smooth and fast toll payments, enhancing the efficiency of traffic flow across motorway networks in Pakistan.
In simple terms, M-Tag is like an electronic sticker attached to your car’s windscreen. Every time you enter or exit a motorway, the toll is deducted automatically from your pre-loaded M Tag Motorway Pakistan account, making your commute hassle-free.
Why it is Mandatory To Get M Tag Motorway Pakistan?
Since early 2024, to get To Get M Tag Motorway Pakistan is mandatory for all vehicles on the motorways. This requirement follows a Lahore High Court (LHC) ruling aimed at improving traffic management and ensuring a smoother driving experience. Additionally, the NHMP has warned that vehicles without an M-Tag will face heavy fines and may be denied entry onto the motorway.
Benefits of M-Tag
- Faster Travel: Since tolls are deducted automatically, you can avoid long lines at toll booths.
- Convenience: No need for cash transactions at toll plazas. Just ensure your M-Tag is topped up.
- Traffic Reduction: By speeding up the toll process, M-Tag helps reduce congestion on the motorways.
- Environmental Benefits: With fewer cars idling at toll booths, emissions are reduced, contributing to cleaner air.
How to Get M-Tag for Motorway Travel in Pakistan
The process of obtaining an M-Tag is relatively simple and involves visiting an M-Tag issuance center located at various motorway toll plazas. Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting your M-Tag.
Step 1: Gather the Required Documents
To obtain your M-Tag, you need the following documents:
- Original CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card)
- Vehicle Registration Book
- Valid Driving License
- COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (optional, but recommended for some issuance points)
Ensure that your vehicle is properly registered, as vehicles with an “applied for” status will not be eligible for M-Tag.
Step 2: Visit the Nearest M-Tag Issuance Booth
Once you have your documents ready, visit any motorway toll plaza that offers M-Tag registration services. Major booths are located at points like the Ravi Toll Plaza and other designated spots along M-1, M-2, and M-3 motorways. You can also inquire about the closest booth by calling the M-Tag helpline.
Step 3: Pay the Registration Fee
Since January 1, 2022, there has been a registration fee of PKR 200 for the M-Tag. In addition to this, you need to deposit a minimum balance of PKR 300 into your account for tolls, making the total initial cost PKR 500.
Step 4: Affixing the M-Tag
After paying the fee, the M-Tag will be issued and affixed to the top-right corner of your vehicle’s windscreen by an official at the booth. Make sure the tag is placed inside the windscreen, not outside.
How to Check Your M-Tag Balance
Keeping track of your balance is crucial to avoid fines and ensure smooth travel. To check your M-Tag balance:
- SMS Option: Send an SMS with the format “Balance M-Tag ID” to 9909. You will receive a message with your current balance.
- M-Tag App: You can also check your balance using the One Network App, available for both Android and iOS. This app allows you to track your balance, recharge your account, and view toll costs from point A to point B.
How to Recharge Your M-Tag
There are several convenient ways to recharge your M-Tag account:
- Scratch Cards: Available at various toll plazas and resting areas. Scratch the card and follow the instructions to load the amount.
- Mobile Payment Solutions: You can top up your account using JazzCash, EasyPaisa, or U-Paisa.
- M-2 Customer Care Centers: These centers at major toll plazas also offer recharge services.
Online M-Tag Registration and App
For those who prefer an online solution, the One Network App offers a convenient way to register and manage your M-Tag account. Simply download the app, register with your CNIC, and follow the prompts. If your vehicle isn’t listed under your name, call the helpline at 1313, answer some verification questions, and have the car transferred to your account.
Common Issues and How to Solve Them
1. Vehicle Not Registered Under Your Name
If the vehicle is not under your name but you’re the primary user, you can still register the M-Tag by providing your CNIC and registration book. Contact the helpline if you face issues during online registration.
2. Applied For Registration
Vehicles that are not yet registered (with an “applied for” registration status) are not eligible for an M-Tag. Ensure your vehicle is fully registered before attempting to apply.
3. Insufficient Balance at the Toll Booth
If your M-Tag account does not have sufficient funds, you will not be allowed to pass through the toll gate. Always check and top up your balance before traveling.
Fines and Penalties for Traveling Without M-Tag
Starting in 2024, any vehicle attempting to travel on the motorway without an M-Tag will face fines and penalties. To avoid this, ensure that your vehicle is registered with the M-Tag system and that your balance is sufficient.
Useful Contacts and Links:
- M-Tag Helpline: 1313
- SMS Balance Check: Text “Balance M-Tag ID” to 9909
- App Download: Search for “One Network” on the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
Conclusion
The M-Tag system is designed to make motorway travel in Pakistan faster, more convenient, and environmentally friendly. With the 2024 requirement making it mandatory for all vehicles, obtaining and maintaining an M-Tag is essential for any motorist planning to use the motorways. By following the steps outlined above, you can easily get your M-Tag and enjoy seamless travel across Pakistan’s motorway network.
So, whether you’re a daily commuter or planning a road trip, make sure you’re prepared by getting your M-Tag today! For more blog post like this checkout out latest posts on Explore it Beyond.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Getting an M-Tag for Motorway Travel in Pakistan
1. What documents do I need to obtain an M-Tag for my vehicle?
To register for an M-Tag, you will need the following documents:
- Original CNIC (Computerized National Identity Card)
- Vehicle Registration Book
- Valid Driving License
- COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate (recommended at some booths)
Make sure your vehicle is fully registered, as vehicles with “applied for” registration status are not eligible for an M-Tag.
2. How much does it cost to get an M-Tag?
The cost of registering for an M-Tag includes a PKR 200 registration fee and a minimum balance of PKR 300 that must be loaded into your account, bringing the total initial cost to PKR 500. This balance can be used for toll deductions.
3. Where can I get my M-Tag issued?
M-Tag issuance centers are located at major motorway toll plazas, such as the Ravi Toll Plaza on the M-2 Motorway and other designated points on M-1, M-2, and M-3. You can inquire about the nearest booth by calling the M-Tag helpline at 1313.
4. How do I check my M-Tag balance?
You can check your M-Tag balance through the following methods:
- SMS: Send an SMS with the format “Balance M-Tag ID” to 9909.
- One Network App: The app allows you to track your balance, recharge your account, and calculate toll costs.
5. What happens if my M-Tag account has insufficient funds?
If your M-Tag account does not have sufficient balance, you will not be allowed to pass through the toll gate, and you may face fines. Ensure your account is topped up before starting your journey.
6. Can I get an M-Tag if the vehicle registration is not in my name?
Yes, you can still obtain an M-Tag even if the vehicle registration is not under your name, as long as you provide your CNIC, the vehicle registration book, and a valid driving license. If you encounter any issues, call the helpline for assistance.
7. What are the penalties for traveling on the motorway without an M-Tag?
Starting from December 31, 2023, all vehicles traveling on Pakistan’s motorways must have an M-Tag. Vehicles without an M-Tag will not be allowed entry, and violators may face fines.
