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In a major push in travel and commute, Maharashtra is poised for a transformative upgrade in road infrastructure, as the central government has approved
a series of projects worth Rs 1.5 lakh crore. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari announced the plan, which aims to significantly reduce travel times, improve logistics efficiency, and ease congestion for commuters across the state. Key features of this ambitious plan include a second Mumbai–Pune Expressway, a new expressway connecting Pune to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and various elevated corridors in the Pune area.
Mumbai–Pune Expressway II: A 90-Minute Journey
The proposed Mumbai-Pune Expressway II, spanning 130 kilometers and costing approximately Rs 15,000 crore, will run parallel to the existing expressway. This new corridor is expected to cut travel time from the current 2.5 to 3 hours down to just 90 minutes, particularly alleviating congestion in the ghat sections notorious for delays. Gadkari confirmed that the initial phase, connecting Pagote near JNPA to Chowk in Panvel, has received official approval.
Once operational, this expressway will enhance connectivity between Mumbai and Pune, benefiting daily commuters, logistics companies, and emergency services.
Mumbai to Bengaluru: Reach in 5.5 Hours
The new expressway network will also facilitate travel from Mumbai to Bengaluru in just 5.5 hours via Pune, which is anticipated to boost business travel, tourism, and inter-city commerce across western and southern India.
Also Read: 3 Road Stretches, Rs 1.04 Lakh Crore, Repeated Delays: Why Delhi–Mumbai Expressway Is Years Behind Schedule
Pune–Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar Expressway
Additionally, a new greenfield expressway connecting Pune and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar is in the pipeline with an estimated budget of Rs 16,318 crore. This project aims to reduce travel time between the two cities to approximately two hours. Two potential route alignments are under consideration: one via Ahilyanagar and another through Shikrapur in Beed district. This expressway will also enhance connectivity from Sambhajinagar to Nagpur, reducing travel time to 2.5 to 3 hours.
Major Investments in Pune District
Pune district is set to receive nearly Rs 50,000 crore in infrastructure investments, with construction expected to commence within three months after the local body elections. Key projects include:
- Talegaon–Chakan–Shikrapur Elevated Corridor: This Rs 4,207 crore project will integrate roads, flyovers, and a metro line.
- Hadapsar–Yavat Elevated Road: Currently in the Detailed Project Report (DPR) stage, construction is anticipated to begin after elections.
Improved Freight and Port Connectivity
To enhance freight transport and port access, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) plans to develop a 15-km link road connecting Morbe and Kalamboli, directly linking the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway to JNPA. This Rs 9,000 crore project is expected to improve cargo movement as the Maharashtra segment of the Delhi-Mumbai Expressway nears completion by 2026.
Timeline for Construction
Gadkari stated that construction work for the approved projects is scheduled to begin in 2026, with significant investments earmarked specifically for the Pune region. This extensive expressway initiative is anticipated to revolutionize travel, trade, and urban mobility in Maharashtra over the next decade.
