Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik Pushes For Relocation Of Dahisar Toll Naka To Ease Traffic Woes

In an effort to reduce heavy traffic congestion at the northern entry point of Mumbai, Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has formally proposed shifting the Dahisar Toll Naka approximately two kilometers ahead to a new location near the Western Hotel. The proposal aims to reduce vehicular bottlenecks and fuel wastage while offering environmental and commuter benefits.

Dahisar Toll Naka

The Dahisar Toll Naka, located on the Mumbai -Mira- Bhayander border, continues to be a major source of traffic snarls for the over 1.5 million residents of Mira-Bhayander and thousands of daily commuters heading into Mumbai. Despite interventions from multiple agencies — including the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the Mumbai Police, Regional Transport Office (RTO), and Mira-Bhayander Municipal Corporation (MBMC) — the issue remains unresolved.

Sarnaik, in a letter to Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, stressed that the toll plaza's current location within Mira- Bhayander city limits is no longer tenable. He suggested that relocating the toll booth in front of the Western Hotel — around 2 km further up the highway — would streamline traffic, reduce emissions, and allow local residents to travel toll-free within the city.

"When Eknath Shinde was Chief Minister, he took commendable steps by scrapping several toll plazas and providing toll exemptions for smaller vehicles. We now request a similar intervention to address the persistent issues at Dahisar," Sarnaik stated.

The minister also pointed out that he had conducted an on-ground inspection of the area alongside relevant authorities but found no lasting solution implemented so far. He expressed confidence that the proposed shift would significantly alleviate pressure on this vital transit corridor into Mumbai.

According to Sarnaik , Deputy CM Shinde has assured that a high-level meeting will soon be convened to deliberate the proposal. If approved, the relocation is expected to improve traffic flow, reduce fuel consumption, and enhance the overall commuting experience for those traveling between Mumbai and the rapidly growing Mira-Bhayander region.