Maharashtra to Streamline Transport by Closing 22 Border Check Posts

Mumbai: The Maharashtra government has announced plans to permanently close all 22 of its border check posts, a move aimed at modernizing the state’s transport system. The decision, driven by Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, seeks to eliminate longstanding inefficiencies and curb corruption associated with these checkpoints.

The check posts, often criticized by transporters for fostering corrupt practices, have been a significant hurdle to seamless interstate travel. By shutting them down, the state intends to leverage digital monitoring systems introduced under the Goods and Services Tax (GST) regime, which have reduced the need for physical inspections. “This is a step toward a more efficient transport network,” Sarnaik told the Free Press Journal, highlighting that the closures align with GST reforms and aim to enhance road safety.

A committee led by Transport Commissioner Vivek Bhimanwar submitted a favorable report to the government, endorsing the closure. The panel’s findings underscored the potential for digital tools to replace outdated manual checks, a shift expected to benefit transporters by reducing delays and operational costs. The initiative has been met with approval from the transport sector, which has long advocated for such reforms.

The state’s transport ministry formally confirmed the decision on Sunday, marking a significant step toward modernizing Maharashtra’s logistics framework. The closures are expected to streamline interstate goods movement, fostering economic efficiency while addressing concerns about corruption at these checkpoints.