Dahisar toll plaza temporarily shifted 50 meters ahead

The Dahisar toll plaza has become a hot topic after Transport Minister and Ovala-Majiwada MLA Pratap Sarnaik promised to relocate it to ease traffic congestion. Sarnaik had earlier warned that if the toll plaza was not moved, he would launch a Shiv Sena-style agitation to ensure its relocation.

Following his assurance, the contractor began shifting the toll plaza at midnight on Sunday, raising public expectations. However, citizens were disappointed to find that the plaza had been moved only about 50 meters, sparking widespread anger.

Located on the northern edge of Mumbai, the toll plaza’s temporary relocation is being justified by Minister Sarnaik as a step that will help reduce traffic congestion. A few months ago, he had directed the MSRDC and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to find an alternative site near Versova Bridge.

However, villagers along the highway strongly opposed the idea of shifting the toll plaza into the Vasai-Virar or Mira-Bhayander areas, saying it would inconvenience locals. The Bhumiputra organisation and the BJP supported their stance, leading to a stalemate over the new location.

Despite the opposition, Sarnaik reiterated on November 13 that the plaza would be relocated. Eventually, it was shifted just 50 meters further on the Vasai-Virar road. On Thursday, Sarnaik inspected the new site, noting that large dividers were removed and a separate lane for heavy vehicles was created, claiming these changes had eased vehicle movement considerably.

He added that the BMC Commissioner has planned to widen the approach roads to Mumbai. Since the contractor’s agreement runs until 2029, the plaza has been moved temporarily, and it will be fully relocated later once a suitable site is found.

Despite these claims, commuters remain frustrated, saying the relocation has done little to solve congestion. Many feel misled after repeated announcements over the past two months raised hopes of a permanent solution.

Meanwhile, Shiv Sena workers celebrated the move, claiming Sarnaik had fulfilled his promise. They wore turbans and burst firecrackers near the toll plaza, asserting that traffic congestion had reduced and that a permanent relocation would follow soon.

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