Infrastructure milestone is on the horizon for Maharashtra as the Pune-Mumbai Expressway’s long-anticipated ‘missing link’ project is slated for public opening by November or December this year. This crucial development, confirmed by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, promises to dramatically reduce travel time between Pune and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport to a mere 90 minutes. The completion of this engineering feat is poised to alleviate chronic traffic congestion in the challenging ghat sections, fostering smoother and more efficient inter-city mobility.
The 13.3-kilometre ‘missing link’, spearheaded by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), has achieved an impressive 94 per cent completion. Designed to bypass the perennially congested Lonavla and Khandala ghat regions, the new alignment incorporates several advanced engineering features. Mr. Fadnavis lauded the project as an “engineering marvel,” highlighting India’s longest urban tunnel, stretching 9.1 kilometres with an unprecedented 23-metre width, and a viaduct soaring 180 metres, making it the tallest in the country. These components collectively set new benchmarks in infrastructure development.
Despite its relatively short length, this strategic bypass is projected to save commuters at least 30 minutes of travel time between Pune and Mumbai. Beyond mere time savings, the enhanced connectivity is expected to yield substantial economic and environmental benefits. Reduced idling time in traffic snarls will translate into lower fuel consumption and a decreased carbon footprint, aligning with the broader vision for zero net carbon and eco-friendly urban centres. The improved logistical efficiency will also bolster commercial activities, facilitating seamless movement of goods and services across this vital economic corridor.
The project’s progress was personally reviewed by Deputy Chief Minister Fadnavis, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and MSRDC Managing Director Anilkumar Gaikwad, during an inspection that also included the Navi Mumbai airport construction site. Mr. Fadnavis reaffirmed the government’s commitment to establishing a dedicated international airport for Pune, acknowledging the city’s burgeoning demand and its pivotal role as a manufacturing and technology hub. While the Navi Mumbai Airport will initially help manage the growing air traffic, a bespoke facility for Pune remains a priority to cater to its future development potential.
The imminent operationalisation of the ‘missing link’ represents more than just a road upgrade; it symbolises a concerted effort towards building resilient and future-ready urban infrastructure. By enhancing connectivity, reducing environmental impact, and improving the quality of life for millions of commuters, this project is a testament to the strategic planning required to support the sustained growth and equitable development of Maharashtra’s key metropolitan regions.
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