The Maharashtra government has announced an exemption from toll charges for vehicles travelling to the Konkan region in relation to the Ganesh Chaturthi festival. This waiver will take effect from September 11, 2026, and will continue until September 27, 2026. This initiative is aimed at facilitating the travel of devotees during this significant festival period.

How To Obtain The Toll-Waiver Pass

Devotees wishing to avail of this toll exemption can obtain a dedicated toll-waiver sticker or pass at no additional cost. These passes can be collected from various local authorities, including local police stations, traffic police checkposts, and regional transport offices (RTOs). This ensures that the process for obtaining these passes is straightforward and accessible to the public.

To secure the pass, individuals must visit their nearest police station, traffic chowky, or RTO office. They will be required to fill out a simple application form that requests basic information such as the travel schedule and vehicle details. Important information to provide includes the Vehicle Registration Number and the name of the driver or vehicle owner. Following a brief verification process, authorities will issue an official sticker inscribed with “Ganeshotsav 2026 Konkan Darshan.” This sticker must then be affixed clearly to the front windscreen of the vehicle before departure.

It is important for travellers to note that the same pass will be valid for their return journey. Therefore, it is advisable to keep the pass intact on the windscreen throughout the travel period to ensure a hassle-free return trip.

Eligible Routes And Exemptions For Public Transport

The toll waiver applies to a variety of routes, specifically the toll plazas on the Mumbai–Goa National Highway (NH-66), the Mumbai–Bengaluru National Highway (NH-48), and the Atal Setu (Sewri–Nhava Sheva). The exemption covers all major state highways administered by the Public Works Department (PWD) and the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) leading into the Konkan region.

In addition to personal vehicles, state transport (MSRTC) buses that are transporting devotees from different districts to Konkan will also benefit from the exemption. This measure is part of the government’s effort to manage the anticipated heavy influx of people during this auspicious period.

Each year, lakhs of devotees journey to the Konkan region for the Ganesh festival, also known as Ganeshotsav. This celebration serves as a deeply ingrained cultural tradition, marking a significant homecoming for many who have migrated to urban areas such as Mumbai and Pune. This ritualistic return during the festival creates an overwhelming atmosphere of joy and community among the inhabitants of Konkan.

Significance Of The Ganesh Festival In Konkan

Unlike the large public pandals seen in cities like Mumbai or Pune, Ganeshotsav in Konkan is noted for its more personal and intimate celebrations, with household Ganpatis taking centre stage. The travel experience itself, whether by the scenic Konkan Railway or the Mumbai-Goa highway, offers a picturesque journey through the lush landscapes, cascading waterfalls, and verdant paddy fields that characterise the region.

This festival period serves as a vital opportunity for city dwellers to reconnect with their roots and experience the tranquillity of nature away from urban life. The government’s initiatives, including the toll exemption, reflect an understanding of the significance of this cultural event and aim to support the large number of participants involved.

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