The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step in advancing its green transport agenda by extending toll exemptions for electric vehicles (EVs) to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL) in Mumbai.
This decision aligns with the state’s commitment to fostering eco-friendly and sustainable mobility solutions, reinforcing the goals outlined in the Maharashtra Electric Vehicle Policy 2025. As one of Mumbai’s busiest routes, the BWSL sees nearly 60,000 vehicles every day, with EVs making up approximately 8% of the traffic. The toll for regular vehicles on this strategic route is set at ₹100 for cars and jeeps, ₹160 for buses, and ₹210 for commercial vehicles. With the introduction of the toll waiver, EV owners can now benefit from significant financial relief, thus encouraging a wider adoption of electric vehicles.
A senior official from the state transport department confirmed the toll exemption for the BWSL, which is part of a broader initiative to enhance the state’s EV infrastructure. The toll waiver initiative follows the successful implementation of similar measures on major roads such as the Samruddhi Expressway, Mumbai-Pune Expressway, and Atal Setu, where public demand for EV incentives had been strong. Given the positive reception of these measures, the Maharashtra government moved swiftly to extend these benefits to the Bandra-Worli Sea Link, an essential connector in Mumbai’s road network. The decision is expected to cost the state government approximately ₹3,000 crore over the next five years. This expenditure will be fully absorbed by the state, underscoring its strong commitment to reducing carbon emissions and accelerating the transition towards electric mobility. The extension of toll exemptions is seen as a key component of the Maharashtra Electric Vehicle Policy 2025, which was approved by the state cabinet on April 29, 2025.
This policy is a comprehensive framework designed to enhance the adoption of electric vehicles across the state. It includes a range of incentives aimed at both individual consumers and businesses, such as subsidies on the purchase of EVs, a full waiver of motor vehicle taxes, and toll exemptions on key state-managed routes. Furthermore, the policy envisions a 50% toll discount for EVs using roads managed by the Public Works Department (PWD), the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), and the Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA). These moves are expected to make EVs a more attractive and affordable option for daily commuters and businesses alike.
The Maharashtra Electric Vehicle Policy 2025, spearheaded by the state government, is part of the broader effort to build a sustainable transport ecosystem in India’s financial capital. The policy is backed by the formation of a high-level steering committee, led by the state’s chief secretary, which will oversee its implementation and refine the guidelines for toll exemptions and other incentives. By offering such substantial financial incentives, Maharashtra is positioning itself as a leader in India’s transition to clean, green, and sustainable transportation. EVs, which contribute significantly to reducing air pollution, are increasingly being seen as a crucial part of the solution to Mumbai’s traffic congestion and environmental challenges. The toll waiver on the BWSL, one of the city’s most iconic infrastructural landmarks, reflects a clear commitment to ensuring that sustainability remains at the forefront of the state’s urban development and transportation policies.
The move to extend toll exemptions also signals the Maharashtra government’s recognition of the need for infrastructure reforms to facilitate the widespread adoption of electric vehicles. It is expected that the toll waiver will encourage more vehicle owners to switch to electric models, thereby reducing the dependency on fossil fuels, cutting emissions, and contributing to the state’s goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions in the coming decades. However, experts have pointed out that while this initiative is a step in the right direction, further infrastructure development is required to truly make EVs a viable option for a majority of commuters in Mumbai and across Maharashtra. Charging stations, for instance, remain sparse in many parts of the city, and scaling up charging infrastructure must accompany incentives like toll exemptions to ensure the success of the electric vehicle transition.
Maharashtra’s move is also aligned with national efforts to promote clean energy and reduce the carbon footprint of the transport sector. In recent years, the central government has rolled out various initiatives, such as the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, to encourage the growth of the EV market. The state’s decision to provide financial relief in the form of toll waivers further complements these national initiatives and aligns with global trends towards greener mobility solutions. EV adoption, though growing, is still in its early stages in India, and the extension of toll exemptions to critical infrastructure like the Bandra-Worli Sea Link is a timely intervention. As the country continues to tackle its environmental challenges, such policies are expected to play a significant role in driving the shift towards sustainable transportation.
The move also addresses the need for more equitable and inclusive mobility solutions. Electric vehicles, which are seen as cleaner and more affordable alternatives to traditional petrol and diesel-powered vehicles, hold the promise of reducing the urban air pollution that disproportionately affects lower-income communities. With these measures, Maharashtra is not only advancing its environmental goals but also taking a step towards making clean mobility accessible to a broader segment of society. As the state moves forward with its ambitious goals, the Maharashtra Electric Vehicle Policy 2025 and the toll exemption on the Bandra-Worli Sea Link represent crucial milestones in the development of a cleaner, more sustainable urban transport ecosystem. The state government’s continued focus on making EVs more affordable and accessible will likely be a major factor in shaping the future of Mumbai’s transportation landscape.
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