Ahead of the Maharashtra Assembly elections, Chief Minister Eknath Shinde announced a toll waiver for light motor vehicles at Mumbai's five entry toll booths effective from midnight, October 14, 2024. The waiver, which applies to tolls at Vashi, Airoli, Mulund, and Dahisar, is seen as a voter-friendly initiative by the ruling Mahayuti Alliance as the state gears up for elections. The decision is expected to save time for daily commuters and relieve financial burdens, though it will result in a significant revenue loss for the state government. Criticism has emerged from opposition parties, including the Maha Vikas Aghadi, labeling the move as an 'empty promise' aimed at swaying voters. The toll waiver decision aligns with a broader trend of government initiatives seeking to address public concerns, such as traffic congestion and long-standing demands for toll exemptions. The Maharashtrian political landscape is poised for a contest between the Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition and the ruling Mahayuti Alliance, with polls anticipated in November 2024.