Hike in toll fees: MNS hits out at BJP- Shiv Sena Govt 

By: Pune Pulse

October 9, 2023

Pune: The Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) leader, Raj Thackeray, expressed his concerns regarding the recent increase in toll rates in Thane and Mumbai. In a press conference, Thackeray questioned the reasoning behind this hike and criticized the Maharashtra government for its decision. 

Furthermore, Thackeray issued a warning to the Deputy Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis, stating that if tolls continue to be collected at toll plazas, they will be burned. This statement reflects the MNS’s strong opposition to the toll collection at five entry points in Mumbai, which has been ongoing since October 1. Avinash Jadhav, a prominent leader of the MNS, has been leading the protest against the toll hike. 

Following Jadhav’s hunger strike, Thackeray held a press conference to further address the issue and caution the government about the consequences of their actions. The MNS has strongly criticized the Maharashtra government for the fare hike at all five toll plazas in Mumbai.

The government has specifically increased rates at five toll plazas, namely Dahisar toll plaza, Anand Nagar toll plaza in Mulund, toll plaza on Mulund-Thane road, Thane-Airoli toll plaza, and Sion-Panvel toll plaza. It remains uncertain whether the government will reconsider this toll hike. However, the MNS has taken action by once again raising the issue of a toll hike on the Mumbai-Goa highway. 

He further tweeted, ”Earlier, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had filed a petition to stop the toll. I want to ask them on whose behest did you withdraw that plea? I am also surprised by our people. How can you vote for those who make false promises to come to power? They will realize their mistake only if they vote against leaders who make false promises. I will meet the chief minister in the next 2–4 days. I will present a detailed topic in front of them. Then let’s take a stand on the increased toll.”

 Madhupriya Dhanwate