Transport commissioner issues termination notices to abolish border check posts in Maharashtra

Time of India

a day ago

Mumbai: Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar on Saturday issued termination notices to 22 border check posts in the state. This indicates that the border check posts, which are allegedly a hub for malpractices, are finally being abolished in Maharashtra.
The decision was in line with the central govt directives and the implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST) system. The aim is to streamline interstate transport and remove obstacles to the movement of commercial vehicles, said a senior transport official. A year ago, Madhya Pradesh abolished its border check posts.
State transport minister Pratap Sarnaik said that these border check posts, established in 1966, were intended to control vehicle movement, ensure compliance with transport regulations, and collect road taxes.
However, after the implementation of GST and advancements in digital measures, the need for these physical check posts diminished.
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In the past, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis also instructed the closure of these check posts. The transporters' unions repeatedly demanded their closure through various representations. Consequently, a positive report addressing administrative issues was sent to the CM, and on approval, the border check posts will now be closed, Sarnaik said.
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In this context, a committee chaired by Bhimanwar conducted an in-depth study of the decision's impact and effectiveness. Based on this report, the govt concluded that the need for physical inspections could be effectively replaced by online systems and electronic monitoring. This transition will increase efficiency, reduce delays, and help prevent malpractices, according to Sarnaik.
Sources said that a private firm was appointed for the border check post project, and agreements were made for the operation and maintenance of the facilities.
However, due to the decision to close these check posts, compensation of Rs 504 crore needs to be paid to the private entity, an official said. "Once this amount is paid, the related technology and immovable assets will become the property of the transport department," the official added.
Bal Malkit Singh from All India Motor Transport Congress said, "This landmark decision comes in response to repeated appeals and follow-ups by transport unions, stakeholders, and the central govt. The move aims to eliminate bottlenecks in interstate transportation, enhance road safety, and implement a paperless, technology-driven monitoring system in line with the 'Ease of Doing Business' framework."