Former cricketer Sachin Tendulkar has raised the toll issue with chief minister Devendra Fadnavis terming toll posts as 'road blocks' for motorists commuting in and around Mumbai. He also said that the roads lacked quality despite the levy being collected for their usage.
In a letter written to Fadnavis on February 20, Tendulkar urges the chief minister relook at the model of operations so that mental and physical toll of Mumbaikars can be reduced. Furthermore, the hike in toll fees by Rs5 has further worsened troubles of people as they have to wait in longer queues.
Listing out various toll posts that dot the metropolis and its extended suburbs, he voiced the concern of the increasing number of toll gates for motorists as well as cancellation of relaxation of norms to pay toll for those residing in the vicinity of the toll posts.
"With the growth of the city, there is a lot of travel that happens from the satellite towns, especially from navi Mumbai and Thane. In this context, there is a need to relook at the number of toll gates rather than keep adding to the list. These tolls have become major road blocks resulting in traffic snarls, burning precious fossil fuel and adding to pollution levels," reads the letter.
Tendulkar has also criticised poor condition of roads despite having to shell out money. For this, he cited the examples of Vashi and Airoli creek bridges.
Additionally, these toll posts are also a hurdle for faster movement of ambulances, the letter said. "I have seen on multiple occasions where ambulances are unable to cross a toll gate as they are stuck in the traffic snarl, compromising the person in need of critical care. Movement of ambulances have been an issue in the city and we should make a start by ensuring smooth passage at the toll gates," added Tendulkar.
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