Prayagraj: In a significant move to facilitate the influx of devotees during the upcoming Mahakumbh 2025, authorities have announced a toll-tax waiver across major highways leading to Prayagraj. The decision aims to ease travel for pilgrims visiting the grand religious congregation expected to draw millions from across the globe.
Toll-Tax Exemption Details
Devotees traveling to Prayagraj during Mahakumbh 2025 will not have to pay toll taxes at key toll plazas, including:
- Rewa Highway: Ganne Toll Plaza
- Mirzapur Road: Mungari Toll Plaza
- Varanasi Route: Handia Toll Plaza
- Kanpur Road: Kokhraj Toll Plaza
- Lucknow Highway: Andhiyari Toll Plaza
- Ayodhya Route: Mauaima Toll Plaza
The exemption will remain in effect for the entire 45-day duration of Mahakumbh 2025.
Relief for Private Vehicles
The toll-tax exemption is specifically for private vehicles, including cars, jeeps, and other personal modes of transport, irrespective of whether they are registered under commercial categories. This measure is designed to ensure a hassle-free travel experience for pilgrims and reduce congestion on roads leading to Prayagraj.
Heavy Commercial Vehicles to Pay Toll
The exemption does not extend to heavy commercial vehicles carrying goods such as cement, steel, sand, or electronics. Toll taxes for such vehicles will continue as usual to maintain the revenue flow for road maintenance and ensure a regulated movement of goods.
Learning from the Past
This is not the first time toll-tax relief has been provided during the Kumbh festival. A similar exemption was implemented during Kumbh 2019, receiving positive feedback from devotees. The administration has reiterated its commitment to making travel convenient for the masses, considering the heavy influx of devotees during Mahakumbh, which is one of the largest religious gatherings in the world.
Preparations Underway
The toll-tax waiver is part of a broader set of preparations to accommodate the massive turnout expected during Mahakumbh 2025. Authorities have initiated the implementation process well in advance to avoid last-minute glitches.
Impact on Devotees
With millions of pilgrims anticipated to visit Prayagraj for the spiritual event, this decision is expected to significantly enhance their travel experience. By reducing travel costs and streamlining road transportation, the administration hopes to make the journey more comfortable for devotees.
This move comes as part of the government’s larger efforts to provide seamless facilities, ensuring that Mahakumbh 2025 is a memorable and enriching experience for all attendees.
