Maharashtra Announces Toll Waiver for Ashadhi Wari Pilgrims from July 6 to 29
Pune, 6th July 2026: The Maharashtra government has announced a statewide toll exemption for vehicles participating in the Ashadhi Wari pilgrimage to Pandharpur. The toll waiver, effective from July 6 to July 29, will benefit the ten revered Palkhis, vehicles carrying devotees and Warkaris, as well as Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) buses travelling to the holy town.
The order was issued by the Public Works Department (PWD) through Deputy Secretary Niranjan Telang on Monday. The decision follows a high-level review meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on June 24, during which various departments were instructed to ensure seamless arrangements for the annual pilgrimage.
According to the government circular, devotees travelling to Pandharpur must display a toll-free pass or sticker mentioning “Ashadhi Ekadashi 2026”, along with the vehicle registration number and driver’s name. The passes will be distributed through the Transport Department, Regional Transport Offices (RTOs), police stations and traffic police units.
The toll exemption will remain valid for both onward and return journeys during the notified period. Authorities have also confirmed that the same pass can be used while returning from Pandharpur.
To ensure smooth movement of the massive pilgrimage procession, the government has directed the deployment of dedicated police personnel at toll plazas, supported by the Highway Security Patrol for traffic management.
The Transport Department has also been instructed to operate additional MSRTC buses to accommodate the increased number of pilgrims. In addition, emergency arrangements, including ambulances, cranes and road repair material, will be stationed at intervals of 20 to 25 kilometres along major routes to provide immediate assistance in case of breakdowns or accidents.
The government has further clarified that all MSRTC buses travelling to Pandharpur from across Maharashtra will be exempt from toll charges during the pilgrimage period.
Officials said the initiative is aimed at facilitating the safe and hassle-free movement of lakhs of Warkaris expected to participate in the annual Ashadhi Wari, one of Maharashtra’s largest and most significant religious pilgrimages.
