Mumbai: 'Congestion Pricing Can Be Considered After Public Transport Upgrade,' Says BMC Chief Ashwini Bhide

Mumbai's Municipal Commissioner Ashwini Bhide has suggested considering congestion pricing in the city, but only after upgrading public transportation, according to a recent podcast she appeared on. Bhide stated that implementing congestion pricing could be a solution to Mumbai's traffic problems if the city has an adequate and well-connected public transport network.

She cited Singapore as an example, where the city's robust public transport system, including metro, monorail, bus, and waterways, and a common ticketing system, make congestion pricing feasible. Bhide also mentioned that Mumbai could introduce congestion pricing in certain areas once it enhances its public transport system, including robust bus services.

As Mumbai Infrastructure Expansion MD, Bhide added that all metro lines in Mumbai will be operational within five years, the entire Coastal Road will be ready, and all ongoing infrastructure projects will be completed. The concept of congestion pricing, or congestion charge, is not new to Mumbaikars and has been a subject of discussion among politicians, transport experts, and commuters for years.

Some have proposed targeting single-occupant private vehicles during peak hours in South Mumbai's busiest areas, such as Fort, Nariman Point, and Colaba.