Bridging the Distance
Dighi Port in Raigad district is emerging as a vital hub for trade, but the current road network faces mounting pressure, especially the popular Tamhini
Ghat route connecting to Pune. This existing route, once a key connector enhanced for smoother travel, now grapples with heavy congestion due to increased tourism and commercial activity, particularly on weekends. With projections of rising cargo movement, relying solely on the Tamhini Ghat is becoming unsustainable. To address this, innovative solutions are being explored, including a proposed route featuring a new bridge near the Tata Dam area in Mulshi-Tamhini, coupled with a tunnel between Dongarwadi and Tamhini. This ambitious project aims to trim the Dighi-Pune distance by approximately 30 kilometers, promising significant time and fuel savings for both freight transporters and everyday commuters, thereby alleviating the current traffic woes.
The Mangaon Alternative
An even more expansive proposal envisions an alternative pathway linking Mangaon to Pune, potentially shaving off a remarkable 50 kilometers from the current travel distance. This extensive project, which includes the development of roads and tunnels, has seen progress in certain segments. Specifically, work on the Kumbhe Dam in Mangaon taluka is underway, and the road from Mangaon to Kumbhe, along with a tunnel through a mountain, has already been completed. Furthermore, a road leading up to Kumbhyachi Wadi is also operational. However, a critical seven-kilometer section, split between Raigad and Pune districts, remains unfinished. Progress on this vital stretch has reportedly been halted due to coordination difficulties between the authorities responsible for the two districts, leaving the full realization of this substantial distance-saving route in limbo.
Tamhini Ghat's Noteworthy Status
Beyond its role as a critical transit corridor, the Tamhini Ghat has garnered attention for its extreme weather patterns. In September 2025, this scenic mountain pass in the Mulshi tehsil experienced exceptionally heavy rainfall, recording over 9,000 mm. Data from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) indicated a total precipitation of 9,194 mm, with one intense spell alone bringing 575 mm of rain. Situated within the Western Ghats, this 15-kilometer stretch is celebrated for its breathtaking waterfalls, serene lakes, and lush, dense forests. During the monsoon season, the surrounding Sahyadri hills transform into a vibrant green landscape, and waterfalls like Valse and Tamhini Falls surge with power, attracting numerous tourists and trekkers. The area also offers access to the tranquil backwaters of the Mulshi Dam, adding to its appeal as a natural destination.
