Maharashtra govt to shut down all motor transport border check posts

Pratap Sarnaik. Pic/X

The Maharashtra government has decided to permanently shut down all Motor Transport Border Check Posts across the state, aligning with the Centre's directives and the nationwide implementation of the Goods and Services Tax (GST). The move is intended to streamline interstate commercial vehicle movement, reduce logistical delays, and transition to a paperless transport system.

Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik confirmed the development on Sunday, stating that the decision marks a significant shift in the state's approach to road transport regulation.

"Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had earlier urged us to phase out the border check posts. Similarly, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis reiterated the need for their closure during the foundation ceremony of the Chief Transport Commissioner's office," Sarnaik said. He also noted that the State Transport Union has long advocated for the removal of these posts.

Check posts rendered obsolete

Initially established in 1966, the check posts were designed to monitor vehicle movement, enforce transport laws, and collect road taxes. However, with GST replacing the need for many state-level levies and the advent of advanced digital tracking systems, these physical checkpoints have become redundant.

Following the Centre's guidance, the state's Transport Department submitted a favorable report to the Chief Minister's Office, clearing the last remaining administrative hurdles. Final approval from the CM is awaited, after which all check posts will officially cease operations.

Rs 504 crore compensation to private partner

As part of this transition, the government will compensate Main Adani Pvt. Ltd., the private firm contracted to develop and manage the state's Integrated Check Post (ICP) project. The compensation package, amounting to Rs 504 crore, will cover the termination of the project, which had integrated transport and customs functions at the border posts.

"A proposal for the compensation has been sent to the Chief Minister. Once approved, the infrastructure and technology assets of the ICP will be handed over to the Transport Department," Sarnaik said.

Digital oversight to replace manual checks

A committee led by the Transport Commissioner evaluated the implications of removing physical checkpoints. The panel concluded that modern electronic surveillance systems are capable of monitoring compliance, improving efficiency, and minimizing corruption.

With this move, Maharashtra will join 18 other states that have already transitioned to a digital, paperless transport governance model in line with the Union Government's 'Ease of Doing Business' initiative.

"This reform will not only simplify logistics for transporters but also improve road safety and bring greater transparency to our transport administration," Sarnaik added.