The Maharashtra government has announced a significant policy change regarding toll collection at key entry points to Mumbai. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde revealed on Monday that light motor vehicles will no longer be required to pay toll fees at five major booths leading into Mumbai. This exemption is set to take effect from midnight on 14 October 2024. The waiver will apply to smaller vehicles such as cars, jeeps, vans, and light trucks.
No Toll Fees For Light Motor Vehicles Entering Mumbai From Tonight
The five toll plazas affected by this decision are located at Dahisar, Anand Nagar, Vaishali, Airoli, and Mulund. According to an article which was recently published by the Economic Times or ET, the Atal Setu toll booth is not included in this exemption.
This move comes at a strategic time, coinciding with the upcoming assembly elections and the approaching festive season, particularly Diwali. The government anticipates that this measure will facilitate smoother travel for commuters entering and exiting Mumbai during this busy period.
The decision to waive toll charges has been a long-standing demand from various political factions. Parties such as the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and both wings of the Shiv Sena have persistently called for this change. Recently, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader Aaditya Thackeray reiterated the appeal to remove toll charges at Mumbai’s entry points.
Good News For Motorists Travelling To Mumbai Now
The implementation of this policy is expected to have a significant impact on daily commuters and occasional visitors to Mumbai alike. By eliminating the need to stop and pay at these key junctions, the government aims to reduce travel times and ease congestion at city entry points.
Whilst this move has been welcomed by many, it remains to be seen how it will affect the revenue streams previously generated by these toll booths and what measures, if any, will be put in place to offset this loss.
What do you think about this move by the Maharashtra government? Do you think it is wise to make entry points toll-free? Let us know in the comments section below!
Cover Image Credits: Canva Images (For Representational Purposes Only)
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First Published: October 14, 2024 12:38 PM