The Mumbai Traffic Police has recently enforced new traffic rules to control congestion. The focus is on restricting heavy vehicles. The rules took effect
on February 1, 2026.
Heavy vehicles cannot enter Mumbai during peak hours. The banned timings are 8 am to 11 am and 5 pm to 9 pm. In South Mumbai, heavy vehicles are barred from 7 am to midnight and can move only between midnight and 7 am.
Heavy vehicles are banned at all hours on the Eastern Freeway. The only exception is public buses.
Exempted vehicles
Some vehicles are exempt to maintain essential services. These include vehicles carrying vegetables, milk, bread, bakery products, drinking water, petrol, diesel and kerosene. Ambulances, school buses, and government or semi-government vehicles are also exempt.
Luxury buses can enter Mumbai. However, they cannot enter South Mumbai during restricted hours.
Parking rules
Heavy vehicles can park only in private or rented spaces or in authorised pay-and-park areas. Parking on public roads is not allowed. Only two water tankers can park on nearby roads close to water supply points.
Police said enforcement will be stricter. Vehicles violating the rules may face fines, penalties, or impoundment. Regular patrols and surveillance will monitor compliance.
Reasons for the decision
Amitesh Kumar, Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), said, “heavy vehicles occupy more road space and move slowly, which leads to longer travel times for other road users.”
Traffic officials added, “these time slots witness the highest vehicular movement, and the presence of large, slow-moving vehicles during these hours majorly increases the risk of accidents and traffic bottlenecks.”
Authorities also cited a rise in the number of vehicles and ongoing infrastructure projects as reasons for frequent gridlocks.
Impact on key areas
The rules will affect busy zones, especially South Mumbai, which has offices, government buildings, heritage areas and tourist locations. Traffic zoning is being revised in Colaba, near the Gateway of India, and around Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus to improve pedestrian movement and limit vehicle access.
Industry concerns and public outreach
Transporters and logistics operators have raised concerns about delivery delays. Authorities have advised them to reschedule trips outside restricted hours. A public awareness campaign will share details through official channels and outreach programmes.
Officials said a draft of the order was first issued in September 2017. Public suggestions and objections were invited. After reviewing feedback and assessing pressure on road space, the order has now been enforced.
(With input from agencies)
