Maharashtra’s New EV Policy 2025 introduces toll exemptions for EVs
The Maharashtra government has unveiled a comprehensive Electric Vehicle Policy 2025 along with a new regulatory framework for app-based transportation aggregators. Aimed at boosting clean transportation and strengthening commuter safety, these policy updates were approved during a cabinet meeting chaired by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis.
EV Policy 2025: Incentives and Infrastructure
The newly launched Maharashtra Electric Vehicle Policy 2025, set to be in effect until March 31, 2030, replaces the earlier 2021 policy that lapsed in March this year. With a financial outlay of Rs. 11,373 crores over five years, the policy focuses on accelerating EV adoption across multiple vehicle segments, including two- and three-wheelers, private and commercial four-wheelers, buses, and electric tractors.
Under this initiative, buyers of eligible vehicles will receive purchase incentives. While electric two-wheelers, three-wheelers and non-transport four-wheelers are eligible for subsidies up to 10% of the vehicle’s base cost, goods carriers and larger passenger vehicles can receive up to 15%. All EVs registered under the policy will also enjoy exemptions from motor vehicle tax and registration or renewal fees.
A major feature of the policy is its emphasis on public and private charging infrastructure. Charging stations will be installed at 25 km intervals along state and national highways. Additionally, all new and existing fuel stations along highways will be equipped with EV charging points where technically feasible. State Transport Undertaking (STU) bus depots and terminals will also host fast-charging units.
In a move to incentivise EV travel on major routes, toll exemptions have been announced. Four-wheeled passenger EVs and electric buses operating on key expressways, including the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, the Mumbai–Nagpur Samruddhi Mahamarg and the Shivdi–Nhava Sheva Atal Setu, will be exempt from tolls. A 50% toll concession is also available for other national and state highways managed by the Public Works Department.
Beyond consumer benefits, the policy aims to stimulate the EV ecosystem by supporting domestic manufacturing, battery recycling and skill development. Environmental goals include significant reductions in particulate matter (PM 2.5) and greenhouse gas emissions from the transport sector by 2030.
Regulation for App-Based Transport Aggregators
Simultaneously, the cabinet approved a new aggregator policy targeting digital ride-hailing platforms such as Ola, Uber and Rapido. The policy, formulated in line with a Supreme Court directive and recommendations from a high-level committee led by retired IAS officer Sudhir Kumar Srivastava, sets out a licensing and compliance framework for such operators.
Key safety and operational provisions include mandatory real-time GPS tracking, driver background checks, integration of emergency contact features and comprehensive insurance coverage for both drivers and passengers. Aggregators must also establish robust grievance redressal systems and adhere to cybersecurity regulations outlined under the Information Technology Act, 2000.
A notable inclusion is a women-centric measure for ride-pooling services. Female passengers will be able to opt for women-only travel arrangements — selecting female drivers and co-passengers when booking shared rides.
A separate rulebook detailing enforcement mechanisms and compliance procedures will be published soon. This policy is designed to regulate urban mobility services while ensuring commuter safety and enabling innovation in transportation.
