Maharashtra: Toll-Free Entry To Mumbai For Light Motors Vehicles
Maharashtra CM Eknath Shinde announced a toll exemption for light motor vehicles at five key Mumbai toll booths starting 15th October 2024.
In a major announcement just before the Maharashtra State Assembly elections in November, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde declared that light motor vehicles (LMVs) will no longer have to pay tolls at five important toll booths while entering and exiting Mumbai. This decision will take effect from midnight of 14th October 2024.
The toll exemption applies to all light motor vehicles, such as scooters, bikes, SUVs, sedans, jeeps, vans, and small trucks. The toll booths included in this waiver are:
- Dahisar
- Thane (Anand Nagar)
- Vashi
- Airoli
- Mulund
However, the toll at Mumbai's Trans-Harbour link, the Atal Setu, is not covered in this exemption.
This decision comes at a time when the state is preparing for the festive season, including Diwali, Christmas, and New Year, during which travel increases significantly. The move aims to ease the travel of more than 6 lakh vehicles that pass in and out of Mumbai daily. The Maharashtra government hopes this will save time and money for commuters, while also reducing traffic congestion and pollution.
This long-pending demand for toll relief has been raised by several political parties, including the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) and Shiv Sena. Following the announcement, workers of the ruling Mahayuti alliance, comprising BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP, celebrated at toll booths by bursting crackers and distributing sweets.
Additionally, in another significant decision, the Maharashtra State Skills University (MSSU) in Fort, Mumbai, will be renamed in memory of the renowned industrialist and philanthropist, late Mr. Ratan Tata, who passed away on 9th October 2024 at the age of 86.
To watch the tribute video by ISH News, click here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sOH9pyOmNEs
