In a move set to impact commuters and transporters, toll rates at five major entry points into Mumbai are slated to increase from October 1. As per report, this adjustment in toll rates, which comes after a gap of three years, will see a hike ranging from 12.50 per cent to 18.75 per cent. The affected entry points include Dahisar, LBS Road-Mulund, Eastern Express Highway-Mulund, Airoli Creek Bridge, and Vashi. The last time toll rates were revised was in October 2020.
As per the government’s notification, these rate revisions are a routine annual calculation but are implemented every three years. This adjustment will result in light motor vehicle tolls, such as passenger cars, increasing by Rs 5, going from the current Rs 40 to Rs 45. Mini buses, on the other hand, will experience a toll increase of Rs 10, with rates climbing from Rs 65 to Rs 75.
For trucks and buses, the toll will stand at Rs 150, while multi-axle vehicles will be charged Rs 190, according to the state government’s notification. These tolls have been in effect since September 2002 and were extended in 2010. The revised rates are expected to remain in effect until October 2026, except for Vashi, where ongoing bridge widening and construction work will extend the toll collection period.
The initial toll system was introduced in September 2002 at Vashi, Mulund, LBS, Airoli, and Dahisar. The extension in 2010 was justified on the grounds of maintenance requirements. Toll collection contracts are expected to continue until September 2027, with an exception for Vashi.
There, the extension has been granted to cover the expenses incurred in widening the creek bridge and toll booth, expanding them from the existing six lanes to 12 lanes. Mumbai Entry Point Toll (MEPL) anticipates generating a substantial cash flow, exceeding Rs 11,500 crore, by 2027.
