Navigating Toll Charges on the Old Pune-Mumbai Highway: Your Comprehensive Guide

The Old Pune-Mumbai Highway, also known as NH 48, offers a less costly and scenic route for travelers between the two major cities. However, knowing the exact toll charges and understanding the benefits and nuances can help you plan your journey more efficiently. This guide will help you understand the current toll rates, the process of payment, and how to navigate this highway.

Current Toll Rates for Traveling from Pune to Panvel via Old Pune-Mumbai Highway

As of my last update, the one-way toll charge for a car or light vehicle on the Old Pune-Mumbai Highway typically ranges between Rs. 300 and Rs. 400. However, it is essential to check the latest rates on the official toll authority's website or a reliable source to ensure accuracy, as toll rates can change.

Recent Toll Experiences

In November 2023, my journey from Thane to Lonavla via the Old Pune-Mumbai Highway (NH-48) involved the following toll charges:

Shedung Toll Plaza: Rs. 47 Kusgaon Toll Plaza: Rs. 47 Total one-way cost: Rs. 94

If you return on the same day, the toll charges are halved. Therefore, the return trip would cost approximately Rs. 23.5 per one-way leg, totaling Rs. 47 for the round trip.

Current Toll Plazas and Charges

The toll plazas on the Old Pune-Mumbai Highway are well-maintained and provide a smooth journey. In my recent trip, the Shedung toll plaza charged Rs. 41, but I was wrongly charged Rs. 54 due to a system glitch. The toll authority promised a refund for the extra amount. This highlights the importance of keeping receipts and being vigilant during toll payments.

Toll Pricing for Vehicles

The toll charges for various vehicle types vary. For a car, the typical rates are as follows:

One-Way Rate: Rs. 300-400 Return Trip (Same Day): Halved charge of one-way toll

Route Planning and Navigation

The Old Pune-Mumbai Highway is in excellent condition, making it a preferred route for those seeking a cost-effective and less congested option. However, Google Maps often guides users towards the new expensive expressway, which is faster but more expensive. Here’s how to plan your route using Google Maps:

Open Google Maps and enter your departure and destination points. Click on Add Stop and add toll plazas like Shedung and Kusgaon. Google Maps will suggest the NH 48 route based on your inputs.

This method ensures you stay on the old highway and avoid the expressway, which can save you time and money.

Updated Toll Charges in 2024

As of 2024, the toll charges on the Old Pune-Mumbai Highway have seen some revisions. Here are the latest rates:

One-Way Toll (Old Highway): Rs. 55 One-Way Toll (New Expressway): Rs. 320

Note that the return toll benefit only applies to the Old Pune-Mumbai Highway and not the new expressway. The expressway offers faster travel but at a higher cost.

Conclusion

Traveling via the Old Pune-Mumbai Highway is a cost-effective and scenic option, especially for cars and light vehicles. By understanding the current toll charges and utilizing route planning tools, you can make informed decisions and save on travel costs.