Toll charges for commercial vehicles entering and exiting Mumbai will increase starting October 1.
MUMBAI: Toll charges for commercial vehicles entering and exiting Mumbai have increased from October 1, the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) said. MSRDC said commercial vehicle operators can buy 50 or 100 toll coupons in advance. Those purchasing 50 coupons will get a 25% discount, while buyers of 100 coupons will get a 50% discount.
The hike has been opposed by transporters, who said the higher toll would raise their operating costs and could eventually push up freight rates and consumer prices. To recover this additional burden, transporters will have to increase freight charges, which will ultimately be passed on to consumers,” said Bal Malkit Singh, adviser and former president of the All India Motor Transport Congress (AIMTC). Discounted journey smart cards will be issued at the toll plazas.
“An increase in toll charges will eventually affect the prices of essential commodities and put an additional financial burden on the people of Mumbai,” Singh said. Singh urged the Maharashtra government to extend the toll exemption available to small vehicles to heavy commercial vehicles as well.