In a move that has taken daily commuters by surprise, the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) announced a significant increase in the toll rates for the Bandra-Worli Sea Link (BWSL). Effective immediately, the toll for a one-way trip has been hiked to INR 100, up from the previous rate of INR 70.
The BWSL is an engineering marvel that has significantly reduced travel time between Bandra and Worli, is a crucial link in Mumbai’s transportation network. The 5.6-kilometer cable-stayed bridge, which opened to the public in 2009, has since become a lifeline for thousands of Mumbaikars commuting between the western suburbs and South Mumbai.
The decision to increase the toll rates comes amidst rising operational and maintenance costs. “The toll hike is necessary to continue providing the high level of service and safety that commuters have come to expect from the BWSL,” said a spokesperson from MSRDC.
The new toll rates have been met with mixed reactions from the public. While some commuters expressed their disappointment over the increased travel costs, others acknowledged the necessity of the hike for the upkeep of the infrastructure. “We understand that the increase in toll rates may cause inconvenience to some commuters. However, we assure them that the funds will be utilized for the maintenance and betterment of the BWSL,” the MSRDC spokesperson added.
The MSRDC has also reassured commuters that it is exploring various measures to ease the financial burden on regular users of the BWSL. These include the introduction of monthly passes and discounts during non-peak hours.