Will the Maha government compensate the MSRDC for toll exemptions at Mumbai’s entry points?
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Synopsis
The Maharashtra Cabinet has approved a significant toll exemption for LMVs at Mumbai's five entry points, extending until 2029. This decision, aimed at easing traffic amid electoral considerations, will see MSRDC compensated for the toll revenues lost. Learn how this impacts daily commuters and the infrastructure landscape in Mumbai.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra Cabinet approves compensation for toll exemptions.
- Exemption period extended to September 17, 2029.
- Approximately 280,000 LMVs to benefit daily.
- Real-time vehicle counting data required.
- Maintenance of flyovers remains with the responsible company.
Mumbai, June 3 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Cabinet, presided over by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has granted approval for the compensation to be paid to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation for the toll exemption applicable to all light motor vehicles (LMVs) passing through Mumbai’s five entry points.
The government had earlier decided to relieve light vehicles, school buses, and state transport corporation buses from toll charges at these entry points in Mumbai in anticipation of the state assembly elections last year.
Additionally, the Cabinet has sanctioned an extension of the toll exemption period, now lasting until September 17, 2029. MSRDC estimated that approximately 280,000 LMVs would benefit from this daily toll waiver. On average, about 360,000 vehicles traverse the five toll booths located along LBS Road and the Eastern Express Highway at Mulund, Airoli Creek Bridge, the Western Express Highway at Dahisar, and Vashi Creek Bridge each day.
Among these, around 280,000 are LMVs. The toll exemption commenced on October 14, 2024. As a result of this concession, the Chief Secretary's Committee has proposed that MEP Infrastructure Pvt Ltd receive compensation for this project in accordance with the established agreement.
Furthermore, the original toll collection period was set from October 19, 2010, to November 18, 2026. This timeframe has now been revised and extended to September 17, 2029.
Nevertheless, a crucial condition mandates the provision of real-time data regarding the actual counting of all vehicle types during the period from November 19, 2026, to September 17, 2029.
Moreover, the responsibility for the upkeep, maintenance, and repair of 27 flyovers and related structures in Mumbai and its suburban areas will remain with the responsible company.
In addition, the Cabinet has approved the staged cash payment of approximately Rs 775.58 crore for the Vashi Creek Bridge No 3 project rather than compensating the MSRDC.
Point of View
The decision made by the Maharashtra government reflects a strategic approach to alleviate traffic congestion in Mumbai, especially before elections. This compensation arrangement for the MSRDC highlights the importance of maintaining a balance between public convenience and infrastructure funding. Such decisions must be analyzed for their long-term impact on the region's transportation framework.
NationPress
11/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the toll exemption?
The toll exemption period has been extended until September 17, 2029.
Who will benefit from the toll exemption?
Approximately 280,000 light motor vehicles, school buses, and state transport corporation buses will benefit from the toll exemption.
How much compensation will be paid to MSRDC?
The Maharashtra government has approved compensation for MSRDC due to the toll exemptions, with payments structured to accommodate this loss.
What is the projected daily traffic through the toll booths?
Around 360,000 vehicles pass through the five toll booths daily, with an average of 280,000 being light motor vehicles.
What are the requirements for vehicle counting data?
A condition has been set for providing real-time data on vehicle counts from November 19, 2026, to September 17, 2029.
