What is the story about?
The long-awaited Mumbai–Pune Expressway missing link is set to open on May 1, coinciding with Maharashtra Day, according to a TOI report. This significant
infrastructure development involves a 13-kilometre stretch that aims to alleviate heavy Mumbai traffic and reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune by at least 30 minutes. Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, while speaking at a public event in Pune, stressed that this project will permanently alleviate congestion on the busy highway.
About Mumbai–Pune Expressway
Located near Lonavla, the project is nearing completion, with approximately 98 per cent of the work finished. Maharashtra Chief Secretary Rajesh Aggarwal recently visited the site to oversee progress and ensure timely completion.
The missing link begins at Khopoli and ends near the Sinhgad Institute in Pune, featuring two eight-lane viaducts and two extensive tunnels. One viaduct measures 790 metres, while the other is 650 metres long. The tunnels span 1.75 kilometres and 8.92 kilometres, enhancing safety and traffic flow, particularly in the accident-prone ghat section.
How Will It Bring Relief For Mumbaikars?
As the expressway currently covers about 19 kilometres between Khopoli and the Sinhgad Institute, vehicles are often forced to navigate a congested route that merges six lanes of the expressway with four lanes of the old Mumbai–Bengaluru highway, known as NH-4.
This missing link is expected to significantly enhance the Mumbai Pune expressway experience by providing a direct bypass and ensuring uninterrupted traffic flow, particularly during peak hours and weekends.
Also Read: Mumbai to Pune in 30 Minutes? ‘Missing Link’ Project Nears Completion - Key Features Explained
Underground Roads in Pune
Moreover, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis announced an ambitious Rs 32,000-crore plan to construct underground roads in Pune. This initiative aims to alleviate surface road congestion by redirecting through-traffic underground, thereby improving travel efficiency and supporting economic growth.
Fadnavis said, “Pune’s development necessitates long-term, forward-thinking solutions. Underground roads will assist in separating local and long-distance traffic, resulting in smoother movement and reduced congestion on city streets.”
