The Maharashtra State Infrastructure Development Corporation (MSIDC) has awarded the Pune–Shirur 54-km, six-lane elevated corridor project to Welspun Enterprises Limited, emerging as the lowest bidder among three competitors. Valued at ₹8,745 crore, the project will be executed on a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model under public-private partnership (PPP), aiming to dramatically cut travel time between Pune and Shirur from over two hours to approximately 45 minutes.
Financial bids were opened on 7 October, with Welspun quoting ₹8,745.38 crore. The other bids came from Adani Enterprises at ₹10,124.07 crore and GR Infraprojects at ₹10,335.82 crore. Though the winning bid is about 46 percent higher than MSIDC’s estimate, officials emphasise that detailed financial negotiations are expected before final approval to ensure project viability and fiscal prudence. A senior MSIDC official highlighted that the corridor will significantly enhance regional connectivity and ease traffic congestion along the existing Pune–Ahmadnagar route. The project is part of the broader Pune–Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar Highway Improvement Plan, designed to strengthen multimodal infrastructure and support sustainable mobility in the region.
The elevated alignment largely follows the existing Pune–Ahilya Nagar highway, minimising land acquisition requirements and ensuring faster connections to major expressways, including the Samruddhi Mahamarg and Chhatrapati Sambhaji Nagar corridor. By utilising the current highway footprint, the project also aims to reduce ecological disruption and safeguard surrounding urban and peri-urban areas. Construction is scheduled to commence by mid-2026, with a projected completion timeline of four years. Officials indicate that the corridor’s development will include modern design features, improved drainage, and environmentally sensitive construction practices to align with the city’s vision of sustainable and equitable transport infrastructure.
The project had previously been re-tendered following cancellation of earlier plans by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC). The renewed tendering process reflects the state’s commitment to transparency, competitive bidding, and efficient utilisation of public funds. Experts believe that once operational, the elevated highway will also encourage the adoption of low-emission transport solutions, reduce fuel consumption from congestion, and promote smoother logistics for goods movement. With Pune increasingly becoming a key economic and IT hub, the corridor is expected to not only enhance commuter convenience but also boost regional economic development. Officials note that integrating the highway with existing transport networks and ensuring sustainable construction standards will contribute to long-term resilience and reduced carbon footprint for the metropolitan region.
Pune Welspun Secures 8750 Crore Elevated Highway Project
