Mumbai Goes Toll-Free

 

Full Toll Waiver for Light Motor Vehicles at All Entry Points: Maharashtra Government 

In a major development, the Maharashtra government has declared a complete toll waiver for light motor vehicles at all five entry points into Mumbai. The decision, announced during a cabinet meeting by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, will come into effect from 12 am tonight, benefiting thousands of commuters daily.

The toll waiver applies to the following entry points:

• Dahisar
• Mulund West (LBS Road)
• Vashi
• Airoli
• Mulund East

Currently, vehicles are charged Rs 45 at these toll plazas. With this decision, light motor vehicles, including cars, jeeps, vans, and small trucks, will now be able to travel in and out of Mumbai toll-free.

Political and Public Demand for Toll Exemption

The removal of toll fees has been a long-standing demand from political parties and citizen groups. The decision is viewed as a strategic move ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, with parties like the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and factions of the Shiv Sena, led by Uddhav Thackeray and Eknath Shinde, actively pushing for the waiver. Recently, Aaditya Thackeray, a prominent leader of the Uddhav faction, reiterated calls for toll exemptions.

History of Toll Booths at Mumbai’s Entry Points

The toll booths were originally established by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) as part of a broader project to construct 55 flyovers across Mumbai. Operational since 2002, these booths were set up to recover construction costs. The toll collection has remained a controversial issue, with numerous political and social groups demanding its removal.

This decision marks a significant relief for daily commuters and is expected to streamline traffic flow, especially during the upcoming Diwali festival.