In a significant move ahead of the upcoming Maharashtra assembly elections, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced that light motor vehicles will be exempt from paying tolls at five key entry points into Mumbai starting October 14, 2024. This decision is expected to provide much-needed relief for daily commuters and ease travel, particularly during the festive season.
Toll Exemption at Five Key Mumbai Toll Booths
The toll exemption applies to light motor vehicles, including cars, jeeps, vans, and small trucks, and will be implemented across the following toll booths:
- Dahisar
- Anand Nagar
- Vashi
- Airoli
- Mulund
These toll booths are essential entry points for commuters traveling to and from Mumbai, and the removal of toll charges is expected to streamline traffic flow during peak periods, especially ahead of Diwali. However, the Atal Setu toll will remain unaffected by this new policy.
Long-Standing Demand Finally Met
The toll waiver has been a long-standing demand from various political parties, including the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena and leaders from both factions of the Shiv Sena. Aaditya Thackeray, leader of Shiv Sena (UBT), recently reiterated the need for toll exemptions at Mumbai’s entry points. The state government’s decision addresses this demand, which has been a critical issue for many Mumbai commuters.
Expected Impact on Commuters
The exemption will benefit a large number of daily travelers who use the Dahisar, LBS Road-Mulund, Eastern Express Highway-Mulund, Airoli Creek Bridge, and Vashi toll booths regularly. This initiative is particularly aimed at easing congestion during the festive period and offering financial relief to regular commuters, who have long voiced concerns about the burden of toll charges on their daily commutes.
A Timely Move Before Elections
This toll exemption comes just ahead of the assembly elections in Maharashtra and is likely to have a positive impact on voter sentiment. The timing of the announcement and its implementation reflects the government’s efforts to address public concerns and ease mobility in and around Mumbai.
