With the Mahakumbh 2024 drawing near, the Prayagraj district is gearing up to host an estimated 40 crore devotees from India and abroad. To ensure smooth travel for pilgrims, the Uttar Pradesh government has announced a waiver on toll taxes for private vehicles on key routes leading to the city during the festival.
This toll exemption, effective at seven major toll plazas, will remain in place for 45 days, starting January 13, 2025 and ending February 26, 2025.
The initiative is aimed at easing travel for devotees heading to Prayagraj for the holy event at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and Saraswati rivers.
Read More: New speed limits on Noida, Yamuna Expressways – Know new limits, fines and more
TOLL BOOTHS TO BE MADE TOLL FREE
The toll-free routes cover seven highways leading into Prayagraj, including:
- Handia toll plaza on the Varanasi route
- Andhiyari toll plaza on the Lucknow route
- Umapur toll plaza on the Chitrakoot route
- Ganne toll plaza on the Rewa route
- Mungeri toll plaza on the Mirzapur route
- Mauaima toll plaza on the Ayodhya route
Thousands of vehicles use these highways daily, and this measure is expected to facilitate the massive influx of private vehicles during the festival.
Read More: Delhi AQI: Central panel imposes GRAP III restrictions, hybrid classes up to Class 5
EXEMPTION FOR PRIVATE VEHICLES
According to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), the toll waiver applies solely to private vehicles.
Commercial vehicles carrying goods such as construction materials or electronics will still be required to pay toll charges.
The move was approved by the central government at the request of the Uttar Pradesh government, highlighting efforts to accommodate the massive scale of this spiritual gathering.
Preparations for Mahakumbh are in full swing as Prayagraj prepares to welcome millions to this grand religious event.
