Ganesh Festival 2026 : Pune RTO to Issue Toll-Free Passes for Konkan Travel
Pune : With thousands of devotees from Pune expected to travel to their native villages in the Konkan region for Ganeshotsav, the Maharashtra Government has announced a temporary exemption from highway toll charges during the festival rush.
As per a government circular issued on September 8, the toll waiver will be applicable from September 11 to September 27, 2026, covering both the journey towards Konkan and the return journey.
The concession has been introduced to facilitate the annual movement of devotees travelling to Konkan for Ganeshotsav celebrations. Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) buses operating for devotees will also be covered under the toll-free arrangement.
Pass mandatory to claim exemption
Devotees travelling by private vehicles will have to obtain the prescribed toll-free pass to avail themselves of the exemption. Applicants are required to submit valid vehicle and transport-related documents while applying for the pass.
The documents required include:
- Vehicle Registration Certificate (RC)
- Driving Licence
- Valid tax certificate
- Insurance certificate
- Fitness certificate, wherever applicable
- Pollution Under Control (PUC) certificate
- Transport permit, wherever applicable
Officials have advised travellers to keep the required documents ready and complete the pass process in advance to avoid delays during the festival rush.
Pune RTO to issue passes
The Pune RTO office on Dr Babasaheb Ambedkar Road near Sangam Bridge will issue toll-free passes during office hours throughout the exemption period. For residents covered under the Pune RTO jurisdiction, passes will also be available at the Alapandi Road and Dive offices on regular working days.
Passes available even on holidays
In a move aimed at making the process easier for working devotees, the main Pune RTO office will also issue toll-free passes on holidays during September 11 to 27. The facility is expected to help travellers who may not be able to visit the RTO on regular working days, particularly ahead of the peak Ganeshotsav travel period.
Relief for thousands travelling to Konkan
Every year, a large number of families from Pune and surrounding areas travel to their native places in Konkan to celebrate Ganeshotsav with their families. The temporary toll exemption is expected to reduce their travel expenses and provide some relief from the additional burden associated with festival travel. Transport authorities have urged Konkan-bound travellers to plan their journeys and pass applications in advance and carry the original, valid documents required for verification. The toll exemption will remain applicable for both onward and return journeys between September 11 and September 27, providing relief throughout the festival travel period.
