Commuters Brace for Higher Fees as Iconic Bridge Implements Toll Hikes
In a development set to impact commuters traversing Mumbai’s bustling thoroughfares, toll rates for the iconic Bandra-Worli Sea Link are poised to surge by 18% effective April 1, extending through the year 2027.
The revised toll structure will see significant increases across vehicle categories, with single journey tolls for cars escalating to Rs 100 from the current Rs 85. Similarly, mini-buses will witness tolls climb to Rs 160 from Rs 130, while trucks face an increase to Rs 210 from Rs 175.
FasTag users will also be subject to adjusted rates, with return journey tickets for cars priced at Rs 150 and daily passes at Rs 250. Mini-bus return journeys will incur a fee of Rs 240, with a daily pass set at Rs 400. Truck drivers utilizing FasTag will be charged Rs 315 for the return journey and Rs 525 for the daily pass.
The Bandra-Worli Sea Link, a testament to engineering marvel and dedicated to the memory of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi, serves as a vital conduit for Mumbai’s vehicular traffic. With an estimated daily flow of 60,000 to 64,000 vehicles and an average monthly usage of around 17 lakh vehicles, the bridge plays a pivotal role in the city’s transportation network.
At present, toll collection on the Bandra-Worli Sea Link is managed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), with oversight provided by an agency operating on a commission basis. Under this arrangement, 4.5% of the toll revenue is directed to the managing agency, with the remaining proceeds allocated to MSRDC for infrastructure maintenance and development initiatives.
As commuters prepare to navigate the increased toll rates, discussions surrounding the impact on travel patterns, congestion levels, and overall transportation affordability are likely to ensue, underscoring the broader implications of toll hikes on urban mobility and commuter welfare.
