In a recent report, it has come to light that drivers using the Eastern and Western Express Highways in Mumbai and nearby areas have collectively paid INR 120.84 crore in toll fees during the first half of 2023.
This figure has been disclosed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC).
Notably, the toll collection extends beyond Mumbai's borders, with motorists from Thane and Mira-Bhayandar also making significant contributions to this toll revenue.
Breaking down the figures, the MSRDC data reveals that the Eastern Express Highway (EEH) accounted for INR 71.97 crore of the total toll revenue, while the Western Express Highway (WEH) contributed INR 48.87 crore.
Meanwhile, few days ago, Aaditya Thackeray, Shiv Sena (UBT) leader, has raised questions on the imposition of toll fees on these highways. Thackeray has called for the abolishment of tolls. This has sparked a debate.
Thackeray claimed that after the transfer of maintenance responsibility from the MSRDC to the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), the toll charge should be abolished.
Radheshyam Mopalwar, the Managing Director of MSRDC, clarified the nature of toll inclusions. He asserted that the toll fees are used for the maintenance of flyovers and bridges along these highways, rather than the roadways themselves.
The toll collection is managed by MEP Infrastructure on behalf of the MSRDC. The toll rates vary based on the type of vehicle.
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