The Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg is preparing for a new role beyond high-speed travel, as authorities push forward an ambitious plan to generate renewable energy along its 701-km stretch. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has confirmed that solar and wind power equipment will soon be installed across the expressway, making it one of the first major transport corridors in the country to double up as a clean energy hub.
The hybrid project, designed to produce an initial 150–200 megawatts of power, will supply electricity to light up the expressway, tunnels, and interchanges, significantly reducing energy costs. Officials describe the move as a step towards transforming the corridor into a “green highway”, reinforcing the state’s target of sustainable infrastructure while lowering its carbon footprint. The unique geography of the route offers a natural advantage. When travelling from Nagpur to Mumbai, the left flank of the expressway runs south-facing, an ideal alignment for solar panels. According to engineers, this orientation ensures maximum sunlight exposure during peak hours, thereby optimising power output. Complementing solar power, steady wind currents and the draft created by fast-moving vehicles will be harnessed to generate wind energy, effectively combining two renewable sources.
Unused land along embankments will be utilised for these installations, ensuring that no additional deforestation or displacement occurs. The project will follow a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model on a Build, Own, Operate and Transfer (BOOT) basis, encouraging private developers to innovate while retaining public oversight. To accelerate implementation, MSRDC has initiated the process of appointing a renewable energy consultant. The consultant will conduct feasibility studies, prepare detailed project reports, and recommend technology solutions that can maximise energy efficiency. Officials indicated that they expect developers to propose advanced concepts in renewable integration, with the project eventually serving as a benchmark for other infrastructure corridors across India.
This initiative comes against the backdrop of the Samruddhi Expressway’s rapid rollout as one of Maharashtra’s flagship infrastructure undertakings. Completed in phases, it links Nagpur to Mumbai and has already demonstrated its potential to cut travel time drastically. Now, with the renewable energy programme, it also signals a move towards future-ready, eco-conscious infrastructure planning. Experts believe that beyond cost savings, the project could transform the perception of highways from being solely high-carbon spaces to becoming active contributors to India’s green energy transition. If successful, the Samruddhi model could be replicated across other major highways, aligning transport with climate action.
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