By Sameera Kapoor Munshi
Published: Aug 21, 2025, 08:04 PM IST

NAVI MUMBAI: In anticipation of a massive surge in traffic during the upcoming Ganesh festival, authorities have imposed restrictions on the movement of heavy vehicles along the Mumbai–Goa highway (National Highway 66). The directive aims to prevent congestion and reduce the risk of accidents on one of the busiest stretches connecting Mumbai with the Konkan region and Goa.

The order, issued by the Deputy Regional Transport Officer (Panvel), prohibits the movement of vehicles with a load capacity of 16 tonnes and above, including trucks, trailers, lorries, and multi-axle vehicles, during specific festival periods. According to officials, the measure is intended to ensure the safety of devotees traveling to various Ganeshotsav celebrations in Konkan and Goa.

“The move is aimed at preventing traffic snarls and accidents on the narrow and heavily trafficked Mumbai–Goa highway, which experiences an unprecedented rush of vehicles during the 11-day Ganesh festival,” an official said. With thousands of devotees traveling to participate in celebrations, authorities have prioritized smooth traffic flow and pedestrian safety.

The restrictions will be in effect during key periods associated with the festival:

• Idol arrivals (Aug 23–28): Complete ban from 12:01 AM on August 23 to 11 PM on August 28.
• Immersion of 5- and 7-day idols (Aug 31 and Sept 2): Ban from 8 AM to 11 PM on both days.
• Anant Chaturdashi (Sept 6–7): Ban from 8 AM on September 6 to 8 PM on September 7.

While the ban applies to most heavy vehicles, exemptions have been made for those carrying essential commodities, such as milk, fuel, LPG cylinders, medicines, oxygen, food grains, vegetables, and other perishable goods. Vehicles transporting import/export cargo from JNPT and Jaigad ports are also allowed to operate under the permit system. Additionally, trucks engaged in road widening and repair works along the highway have been granted special permission.

Authorities have directed transporters seeking exemptions to obtain entry permits from either the transport department or the highway police before operating. This is intended to maintain a controlled and orderly flow of traffic while allowing essential goods and critical services to reach their destinations without disruption.

Traffic police have announced that additional personnel will be deployed at key points along the highway to manage congestion, enforce vehicle restrictions, and assist commuters. The deployment will include checkpoints, patrolling units, and emergency response teams to quickly respond to any accidents or breakdowns.

The Mumbai–Goa highway is a vital artery connecting the metropolis with coastal towns and tourist destinations. During Ganeshotsav, the highway witnesses a surge in passenger vehicles, private cars, buses, and taxis, increasing the risk of traffic jams and accidents, especially in narrow stretches and areas prone to bottlenecks. The heavy vehicle ban is expected to ease these concerns and facilitate a smoother travel experience for festival-goers.

Transport authorities have also urged drivers of exempted vehicles to strictly adhere to traffic regulations, avoid overspeeding, and maintain proper documentation of their permits. Officials highlighted that violations could attract penalties, and enforcement teams will actively monitor compliance throughout the festival period.

Local residents and travelers have welcomed the move, saying that it will make journeys safer and reduce the time spent on the highway during the peak festival days. Festival organizers and Ganeshotsav committees have been asked to coordinate with authorities to schedule processions and idol immersion events in a manner that minimizes disruption to traffic.

With the heavy vehicle restrictions in place, the transport and police departments are confident that devotees will be able to travel to the coastal regions safely and efficiently while celebrating the Ganesh festival. Authorities have emphasized that these measures are temporary but crucial for public safety and smooth traffic management on the Mumbai–Goa highway during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.