Maharashtra Govt Waives Toll for Pandharpur Wari Pilgrims, Enhances Road Safety Measures

Mumbai, June 16, 2025 – The Maharashtra government has issued a comprehensive circular announcing toll exemptions and enhanced safety measures for devotees participating in the annual Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage to Pandharpur. The decision, approved by Chief Minister, aims to facilitate smooth travel for palkhis (palanquins), warkaris (pilgrims), and their vehicles during the pilgrimage period from June 18 to July 10, 2025.

Key Highlights of the Government Circular

Toll Exemption for Pilgrims

• Vehicles carrying pilgrims, palkhis, and devotees will be exempt from toll charges on all state and national highways.
• Special stickers/passes will be issued by the Transport Department, Traffic Police, and RTOs, mentioning “Ashadhi Ekadashi 2025”, vehicle number, and driver details.
• Toll-free passes will be valid for both onward and return journeys.

Enhanced Security & Traffic Management

• Dedicated police personnel will be deployed at toll plazas.

Highway Security Patrolling (HSP) and MSRDC Delta Force will ensure traffic regulation.

• Additional buses will be operated by the Transport Department to manage crowds.

Emergency & Road Repair Measures

Ambulances and cranes will be stationed every 20-25 km on key routes, including:

• Mumbai-Pune Expressway
• Mumbai-Kolhapur-Bangalore Highway
• Pune-Solapur Highway
• Pune-Satara-Kolhapur Highway

PWD, MSRDC, and NHAI have been directed to complete pothole repairs and install signboards before the pilgrimage.

Ban on Heavy Vehicles (If Required)

• The Transport Department may impose temporary restrictions on heavy vehicles to ensure smooth traffic flow.

Public Awareness & Digital Accessibility

• The circular is available on the Maharashtra government’s official website: www.maharashtra.gov.in (Ref: 202506161831245118).

Pilgrimage Routes Covered

The toll waiver applies to all major highways leading to Pandharpur, including:

• Mumbai-Pune Expressway
• Mumbai-Bangalore Highway
• Pune-Solapur Highway
• Pune-Satara-Kolhapur Highway
• Other district and rural roads

Compensation for Toll Operators

Toll operators will be compensated by the state for revenue losses incurred during the exemption period.

Strict Compliance Ordered

The Chief Minister has instructed all concerned authorities—PWD, MSRDC, NHAI, and Police Departments—to ensure strict implementation of these measures.