Since its inauguration last month, Mumbai’s iconic Atal Setu, also known as MTHL (Mumbai Trans Harbour Link) has paved the way for 8.13 lakh vehicles. Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) also revealed that cars dominated the vehicle count at 7.97 lakh, contributing to a toll revenue of ₹13.95 crores.
Challenges and potential ahead
Despite these impressive figures, Dr. Sanjay Mukherjee, MMRDA Commissioner, noted a shortfall in commercial vehicle usage, attributing it to a lack of awareness among drivers from outside the area. He expressed confidence that with time and increased awareness, commercial vehicle traffic would rise. Mukherjee also emphasised the potential of the forthcoming Sewri-Worli Connector, which would boost daily vehicle counts – targeting nearly 40,000 vehicles by the end of 2024.
Open-Road Tolling System to secure tolls
Meanwhile, the collection of tolls presents difficulties, as approximately 4% of vehicles have avoided payment since the bridge opened on January 12. To combat this issue, an Open-Road Tolling System has been implemented, which would impose a ₹50 fine on vehicles with insufficient FASTag balances, to be deducted upon recharge. Despite these obstacles, the MTHL continues to serve as a crucial link, with traffic management handled by the Mumbai Police on the Sewri side and the Nhava Sheva police on the Navi Mumbai side.
