MNS protests toll hike at Mumbai entry points, vows stronger agitation

MNS workers protest at toll plazas/ X/Avinash Jadhav

Activists from the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) staged a protest in Thane city, on Saturday in opposition to the upcoming toll charge increase at five entry points to Mumbai, scheduled to take effect on October 1. The protest was led by Avinash Jadhav, the chief of the MNS units in Thane and Palghar, with demonstrators waving party flags, displaying banners, and vociferously denouncing the toll hike.

According to the PTI report, despite the demonstration, vehicular traffic at the checkposts remained largely unaffected as protesters stood at the side of the road and continued their agitation.

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Speaking to reporters, Jadhav conveyed that while the protest on Saturday had been peaceful, the MNS is prepared to escalate its agitation in the near future, promising a stronger response.

The toll charges at five key entry points to Mumbai, namely Dahisar (Western Express Highway), Airoli, Vashi (Sion-Panvel Highway), Mulund West (LBS Marg), and Eastern Express Highway, are poised to see an increase starting from October 1, stated the report.

The protest by MNS activists reflects the concerns and opposition to the impending toll hike among various segments of the population. Such toll increases often spark public discontent, as they can have financial implications for commuters and businesses. The MNS has historically been active in voicing grievances related to issues affecting the people and toll hikes have been a recurring topic of concern.

As the October 1 implementation date draws closer, it remains to be seen how the situation will develop and whether further protests or negotiations with authorities will occur in response to the toll increase.

Reportedly, the toll rates for the five plazas were last revised in 2020 and the current updated rates, effective this year, will extend till 2026. The toll prices are increased every three years.

For cars and jeeps, the toll will increase from Rs 40 to Rs 45 meanwhile light motor vehicles or tempos will see an increase from ₹65 to ₹75. Similarly, the buses or trucks will pay a Rs 20 higher toll. Presently, they pay a toll of Rs 130 and starting October 1, they will have to pay a toll of Rs 150. Meanwhile, multi-axle vehicles will see a Rs 30 increase in toll. The prices will go from Rs 160 to Rs 190.