Toll Tax New Rule – Electric car owners have a reason to celebrate. The government is rolling out fresh benefits to encourage the shift towards green mobility. After Union Minister Nitin Gadkari was seen driving a Mahindra electric car recently, the government has now made a big move – no tolls for electric four-wheelers and electric buses on some of Maharashtra’s busiest expressways.
Let’s break it down and see what this means for you if you own an EV or are planning to get one.
Tolls Waived on Key Highways for EVs
In a recent cabinet meeting led by Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the government approved a major policy aimed at making EVs more attractive for the public. One of the biggest highlights of this policy is the complete waiver of toll fees for passenger EVs and electric buses on some of the most important highways in the state.
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Here are the roads where EVs will now be able to zip through toll booths without paying a rupee:
- Mumbai-Pune Expressway
- Mumbai-Nagpur Samruddhi Mahamarg
- Atal Setu (Shivdi-Nhava Sheva Sea Link)
In addition to these, other national and state highways managed by the Public Works Department will offer a 50 percent toll discount for electric vehicles.
This move is part of a broader plan to promote clean transportation and reduce pollution in urban and semi-urban areas. With EV ownership on the rise, especially from brands like Tata and Mahindra, this toll exemption is expected to benefit a large number of drivers.
Extra Push to Go Electric
This is not just about tolls. The Maharashtra government is going all-in to support the EV ecosystem. One of the standout features of the policy is the discount offered to new EV buyers.
Here’s what’s on the table:
- A 10 percent discount on the original price of electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers, and non-commercial four-wheelers purchased by private individuals
- Additional subsidies and benefits may be offered based on eligibility and location
- More support for setting up charging stations across the state
This discount makes EVs not only environmentally friendly but also easier on the wallet. If you were thinking of switching to an electric car or bike, this might be the nudge you needed.
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Charging Stations Coming Up Fast
Along with toll exemptions and financial benefits, the government is also focusing on improving infrastructure for EV users. The goal is to make charging your electric vehicle just as easy as filling up a petrol or diesel tank.
To make this happen, oil marketing companies are being encouraged to install EV charging stations at existing and upcoming petrol pumps along major highways. This will make long-distance travel in an EV much more practical and stress-free.
Also, the government plans to introduce fast-charging facilities at State Transport bus terminals and depots. This will not only support public EV buses but also help private EV owners who want to quickly top up their charge.
EV Charging Mandate for Housing Societies
In another significant development, the government wants to make sure that every new residential society built in Maharashtra has charging stations for electric vehicles. Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik recently stated that occupancy certificates for new societies may only be issued if EV charging points are included in the building plans.
This means, in the near future, if you’re moving into a new apartment, your building will likely come with a built-in EV charging option. It’s a forward-looking step that shows the state is serious about supporting the electric vehicle revolution.
What This Means for You
If you already own an electric vehicle or are planning to buy one soon, this is excellent news. Not having to pay tolls on some of the busiest expressways could save you thousands of rupees a year. The 10 percent discount on new purchases makes buying an EV more affordable. And with better charging infrastructure coming soon, you won’t have to worry about running out of power on the go.
This is also great timing for automakers like Tata and Mahindra, who have already launched several electric models in India. More buyers may now consider choosing electric over petrol or diesel, thanks to the combined financial and environmental benefits.
The Maharashtra government’s new EV-friendly policy shows a clear commitment to cleaner, greener mobility. From toll waivers to discounts, charging stations to housing mandates, everything is pointing toward a future where electric vehicles play a bigger role on our roads.
If you’re still driving a traditional car and thinking about switching to electric, this might be the perfect time. You could save on tolls, get a discount, and help reduce pollution — all in one smart decision.
