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Devotees heading to Konkan for Ganesh Chaturthi will get toll-free travel on key highways, along with restrictions on heavy vehicles to ensure smooth journeys.
Essential goods vehicles are exempt from the heavy vehicle ban. (Photo Credit: X)
Devotees travelling to Konkan for Ganesh Chaturthi this year have a reason to rejoice. The Maharashtra government has announced toll-free travel on key highways from tomorrow, August 23, to September 8, making it easier for people to visit the festival destinations without worrying about extra charges.
This applies to the Mumbai-Bengaluru National Highway, Mumbai-Goa National Highway, and other roads managed by PWD and MSRDC.
To use this benefit, devotees need a special pass called “Ganeshotsav 2025 – Konkan Darshan,” which will include the vehicle and owner details.
According to Pune Plus, passes will be issued by Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), police departments, and traffic authorities, and they are valid for both onward and return journeys. Authorities have promised smooth distribution of passes and proper coordination between urban and rural police for hassle-free travel.
Heavy vehicles will not be allowed on the Mumbai-Goa Highway during key festival days to ease traffic
Anticipating heavy traffic during Ganesh Chaturthi, authorities have banned trucks, trailers, lorries, and multi-axle vehicles on the Mumbai-Goa highway during certain periods.
As per Hindustan Times, the ban will apply from midnight on August 23 to 11 PM on August 28, covering the arrival of idols, and again on August 31 and September 2 for five-day and seven-day idol immersions.
A third ban will be in place from 8 AM on September 6 to 8 PM on September 7 for Anant Chaturdashi, the festival’s final day, the publication adds.
Essential goods and port traffic will be exempt from the heavy vehicle ban
Reportedly, vehicles carrying essentials like milk, fuel, LPG, medicines, food grains, vegetables, or other perishable items will be allowed. Similarly, vehicles transporting goods from JNPT and Jaigad ports, as well as materials for road work along the highway, are exempt. Transporters must get entry permits from the transport department or highway police before operating during the restricted periods.
The move aims to prevent traffic jams and ensure the safety of millions of devotees
Officials reportedly explained that the restrictions are necessary to avoid congestion and accidents on the narrow and busy Mumbai-Goa Highway (NH 66), which sees a massive rush of travellers during the festival.
This step, combined with toll-free travel, is expected to make journeys safer, faster, and more comfortable for everyone heading to Konkan.
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d…Read More
The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, the Desk d… Read More
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