Local truck and heavy vehicle owners have strongly opposed the newly imposed Rs 300 toll per trip at the recently inaugurated Mormugao Port flyover. Implemented this week, the toll has raised serious concerns among transporters and logistics operators who depend on the flyover for daily access to the port.
Sudden Financial Burden
Many local operators say the toll came as an unexpected shock. Rajesh Naik, a truck owner from Vasco, expressed, “We were not given sufficient notice to adapt our business. A Rs 300 charge per trip is substantial, especially for those making multiple daily trips. This will severely cut into our already narrow profit margins.”
Rising Costs and Operational Challenges
Transporters warn that the toll will significantly increase their operational expenses. With fuel prices already high and maintenance costs rising, the added toll fee is viewed as an unnecessary strain. Operators fear they will either have to absorb the cost—leading to reduced earnings—or pass it on to customers, raising the overall cost of port operations.
Suresh Patil, who manages a fleet servicing the port, said, “We cannot afford to bear these extra costs, and clients are already pushing for the lowest rates. If we raise our prices, we risk losing business to competitors who might take longer alternative routes to avoid the toll, potentially causing congestion elsewhere.”
Effects on Port Efficiency
Mormugao Port is a vital hub for Goa’s imports and exports, and smooth transport is key to its operations. Truck owners warn that the toll could discourage timely deliveries, disrupt supply chains, and hurt the port’s competitiveness. Some operators are considering reducing trip frequency or rerouting vehicles, which may slow cargo movement and create bottlenecks.