As the state elections approach, the usual wave of freebies begins. The Maharashtra government has announced the withdrawal of toll fees for smaller vehicles entering Mumbai, effective from midnight. Cars, jeeps, vans, and small trucks are now exempt from toll charges. Key toll collection points include Dahisar, LBS Marg (Mulund), Eastern Express Highway (Mulund), Airoli Creek Bridge, and Vashi.

Nearly six lakh small vehicles enter the city daily, and the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation previously funded 55 overbridges, recovering costs through toll collections. Until now, small vehicles were required to pay Rs 45 to enter the city. Political parties Shiv Sena and MNS argue that the costs have already been recouped over ten years, thus justifying the toll's removal.

The credit for this decision goes to the Shiv Sena, MNS, and BJP.