Excessive Fines on Mumbai-Pune Expressway Due to Unclear Speed Limits Raise Public Outcry
A recent social media post has ignited widespread criticism of the speed enforcement practices on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, with motorists expressing frustration over unclear speed limits and excessive fines. The controversy arose after an X user, “The Kaipullai,” shared a personal experience of being fined despite adhering to what seemed a reasonable speed.
Remove all Highway Tolls
— Sandeep Manudhane (@sandeep_PT) June 3, 2024
After paying multiple taxes in the name of Infra Creation etc., they still charge heavy tolls everywhere.
And instead of steadily reducing, and finally ending the same, they are raising the tolls.
This is pure extortionate taxation. End all tolls.… pic.twitter.com/qk4DmUU9s1
The user reported receiving a challan for driving at 70 kmph in Panvel, where the speed limit was allegedly 60 kmph. The post also mentioned widespread speed camera installations along the expressway and nearby regions like Vashi, Panvel, and Pune, contributing to unexpected fines for many drivers unaware of the restrictions.
Everytime you now travel from Mumbai to Pune, in addition to the toll, always factor in paying Rs 2000 as a speeding fine.
— The Kaipullai (@thekaipullai) January 8, 2025
Because now the entire road, including one's in Vashi, Panvel and Pune have speed cameras installed, but govt conveniently skipped telling us the speed…
Growing Public Frustration Over Traffic Fines
The viral post has fueled broader discussions about the fairness of traffic enforcement on Indian highways. Many users echoed similar concerns, calling for better communication from authorities regarding speed limits and improved signage to prevent unintentional violations.
I’ve been there done that a few months ago.
— Sanjay Lazar (@sjlazars) January 9, 2025
I was doing 65 kmph ; got fined as it was apparently a 60 kmph zone – ON THE EXPRESSWAY !
(It’s coming down hill to the food mall and it’s the widest part of the expressway, signage invisible)
It’s a driver fine honey trap by…
Critics argue that the fines, combined with already high toll charges, add to the financial burden on regular commuters. The debate around highway toll fees was reignited in June 2024 when entrepreneur Sandeep Manudhane urged the central government to abolish toll charges, calling them “extortionate taxation.” Similarly, another motorist highlighted paying ₹760 in toll for a 500 km journey, questioning the fairness of such high charges.
Ended up paying ₹760 toll for a 500 km journey today. A bit excessive methinks even by recent road improvement standards.
— Birender Dhanoa (@bsdhanoa) April 14, 2024
Call for Clearer Speed Regulations
The outrage has sparked broader conversations around the need for clearer road signage, more reasonable speed limits, and transparent enforcement measures. Motorists are urging the authorities to ensure speed limits are clearly communicated and that fines are justified and proportional.
With public pressure mounting, it remains to be seen whether authorities will revisit their enforcement policies to address the concerns raised by commuters.
