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In a move aimed at easing the burden on commuters and potentially garnering support ahead of upcoming Assembly elections, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has announced the waiver of tolls for light motor vehicles (LMVs) at all five key entry points into Mumbai. The decision, which was made during the final cabinet meeting before the elections, will come into effect from midnight, providing immediate relief to thousands of daily travelers entering the city.
The waiver affects the toll booths located at Dahisar, Mulund, Vashi, Airoli, and Tinhath Naka, all of which are critical points of entry for those traveling from the surrounding areas into Mumbai. These toll booths have long been a source of revenue for the state government and a common point of congestion for commuters. The waiver is expected to significantly impact the daily routine of those who rely on light vehicles such as cars, rickshaws, and taxis to navigate into the city.
The decision has been met with mixed reactions. While commuters are celebrating the relief from the toll charges, some are questioning the timing of the announcement, seeing it as a political move to gain favor with voters in the lead-up to the elections. Others have raised concerns about the potential impact on the state's revenue stream and the sustainability of such a waiver in the long term.
Despite these concerns, the move is likely to be seen as a positive step by many residents who frequent the Mumbai-surrounding areas commute. The potential impact on voter sentiment remains to be seen, but the decision undoubtedly represents a significant shift in the state's approach to toll management and will likely be a major talking point in the upcoming election campaigns.
Source: Maharashtra CM waives tolls for light vehicles at Mumbai's main entry points from midnight