Heavy Vehicles Banned in Raigad During New Year Celebrations

Authorities in Maharashtra’s Raigad district have imposed a temporary ban on the movement of heavy and oversized vehicles to manage traffic congestion during the New Year celebrations. The restriction will be in effect from 8am on December 31 to midnight on January 1.
The decision was taken in view of the expected surge in tourist arrivals at popular destinations such as Alibag and nearby coastal and hill areas. Officials said heavy traffic during the holiday period often leads to long snarls, inconvenience to residents and tourists, and delays for emergency services like ambulances.
The ban applies to major highways and arterial roads, including sections of the Mumbai–Goa Highway, routes connecting Alibag, Murud, Mandwa, Karjat, Mangaon, and Tamhini Ghat, as well as several state highways within the district. Authorities noted that narrow roads, limited alternative routes, and a mix of tourist and industrial traffic frequently cause congestion at key junctions.
Vehicles providing essential services—such as milk, fuel, cooking gas, medicines, oxygen, water supply, fire services, and ambulances—are exempted from the restriction. The measure aims to ensure smoother traffic flow and enhance road safety during the peak holiday season.