Mumbai: The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has set a firm deadline to complete the remaining portion of the Hinduhrudaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg (HBTMSM) by September 2024.
The final 76-kilometre segment of the expressway, stretching from Igatpuri to Amane (Bhiwandi), is crucial for the full operationalisation of this landmark infrastructure project. MSRDC officials are optimistic about meeting the September deadline, contingent upon the state government’s decision to open the expressway to the public upon completion. “We are confident that the remaining work will be finished by the end of September. The final decision on operationalising the expressway rests with the state government,” an MSRDC spokesperson stated.
Since the commencement of the Greenfield access-controlled highway in February 2019, MSRDC has achieved significant progress. The 625-kilometre stretch of the expressway was made operational in March 2024. The remaining 76-kilometre stretch, which includes the intricate 1.8-kilometre Khardi bridge on the Kasara ghat section, poses the most significant challenge. Despite this, MSRDC has completed the 8-kilometre tunnel and other critical components. The expressway, designed as a six-lane highway, will temporarily narrow to four lanes at the Khardi bridge until the bridge’s full completion.
In addition to the expressway’s construction, MSRDC plans to enhance the user experience by setting up approximately ten public utility services along the route, including petrol stations, dining facilities, and other amenities. Initial tenders for these services received minimal response, prompting MSRDC to reissue tenders to attract more interest. The HBTMSM, with its Greenfield alignment, is designed to support speeds of up to 150 km/h.
It features a 120-metre right of way in non-forest areas and a 90-metre right of way in forested regions, with a central median of 15 metres and a paved shoulder of 2 metres. The expressway incorporates provisions for wildlife and cattle underpasses, as well as flyovers and interchanges at key road junctions. Additionally, vehicular and pedestrian underpasses are included at each village and town along the route to facilitate smooth traffic flow.
The Maharashtra Government announced the ambitious HBTMSM project on November 30, 2015. The expressway is being constructed in 16 segments to expedite the process and manage the extensive 701-kilometre length efficiently.
