Lagatar24 Desk
Mumbai: Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced that toll fees for cars and SUVs entering Mumbai will be scrapped starting at midnight. This significant decision, taken ahead of the upcoming assembly elections, is aimed at reducing the financial burden on commuters, particularly those who travel daily from Thane to Mumbai. Shinde, who has long campaigned against toll charges, called the move a “historic” step to improve convenience and reduce congestion.
Toll-Free Routes in Mumbai
Commuters traveling through the following five toll points will now enjoy a toll-free experience:
Dahisar
LBS Road-Mulund
Eastern Express Highway-Mulund
Airoli Creek Bridge
Vashi
This exemption is expected to provide much-needed relief, particularly during the festive season, and help reduce traffic congestion at toll booths, especially during peak hours.
How Much Do Commuters Save?
With the toll waiver in place, regular commuters will see significant savings.
- Cars and SUVs: Previously paying ₹45 per toll, daily commuters will now save approximately ₹225 per week, which totals around ₹11,700 annually.
- Other light motor vehicles: Vehicles like small delivery vans, jeeps, and taxis, which were charged ₹75 per crossing, will save about ₹375 per week, or nearly ₹19,500 annually.
Who Benefits from the Exemption?
The toll exemption applies to nearly 2.8 lakh light motor vehicles, including:
- Cars (hatchbacks, sedans, SUVs)
- Jeeps
- Vans
- Auto-rickshaws
- Taxis
- Small delivery trucks
However, larger vehicles such as trucks and trailers will continue to pay tolls, as they do not fall under this exemption.
Impact on Traffic and Pollution
Approximately 80% of the six lakh vehicles that cross Mumbai’s toll booths daily are light motor vehicles. The exemption is expected to reduce waiting times, save fuel, and decrease traffic-related pollution in the city.
This toll waiver is one of over 150 key decisions made by the Maharashtra government in recent state cabinet meetings, reflecting the administration’s focus on easing the lives of commuters and addressing their concerns.
