Mumbai to raise entry-exit toll for commercial vehicles from October 1

Mumbai's toll charges for commercial vehicles will increase from October 1, according to an announcement by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation on Wednesday. The revised toll rates will see mini buses and Light Commercial Vehicles (LCVs) charged at ₹90 instead of ₹75, buses and trucks at ₹180 instead of ₹150, and heavy motor vehicles at ₹225 instead of ₹190. The new rates will apply at five entry points to Mumbai: Airoli, Mulund LBS, Mulund Eastern Expressway, Dahisar, and Vashi.

The toll increase has drawn opposition from transporters, who argue that higher charges will increase their operating costs and force them to raise freight charges to offset the additional expenses. Transporters contend that these cost increases will ultimately be passed on to consumers through higher prices for goods and services. Private cars, SUVs, public transport buses, auto rickshaws, and taxis will remain exempt from toll charges at Mumbai entry points.

To ease the financial burden on commercial vehicle owners, the MSRDC has offered discount options for advance purchases. Vehicle owners can buy 50 or 100 toll coupons in advance to receive 25 and 50 per cent discounts, respectively. Discount journey smart cards will also be issued at toll plazas.