Now, MNS targets Bandra-Worli sea link toll collection

MNS alleges BWSL employees behave arrogantly towards commuters. File pic/Atul Kamble

After ransacking the toll collection centre in Sinnar on the Shirdi-Nashik expressway, the MNS has now set its sights on the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL).

Tushar Aphale, the MNS head for the Bandra Assembly constituency, alleges that BWSL employees display uncooperative and arrogant behaviour towards commuters using the sea link in Mumbai. The MNS has formally communicated their concerns to both the toll operator and the Bandra police station.

Furthermore, the MNS leader pointed out that toll operators at BWSL are collecting cash or diverting vehicles to other lanes when there are issues with the electronic toll collection system.

MNS workers went on a rampage at a toll naka at Sinnar on the Shirdi-Nashik expressway after Amit Thackeray was stopped. Pic/Twitter

According to the rule book, toll operators are supposed to allow vehicles to pass for free through the toll plaza if they have valid FASTag or any other smart tag with sufficient balance, but this rule is being blatantly violated. Many commuters are either unaware of this law or lack the time to argue with the toll operators, leading to continued exploitation.

The MNS has further warned of starting agitation if the BSWL operator fails to address the issue. "A letter citing a list of issues has been given to the toll operator. They have assured us to look into the issue and resolve them. If the operator fails to address the problems, we will have no choice but to handle the subject in MNS style," Aphale added.

The other side

An official from the BSWL toll operator company, speaking on the condition of anonymity, confirmed receiving the letter from the MNS. The official said, "A meeting with the MNS delegation and their senior officials will be arranged soon to discuss the issues and take necessary actions to address any grievances."