To alleviate chronic traffic congestion and bolster industrial connectivity, the Maharashtra state government has sanctioned a ₹6,500 crore project to expand the Talegaon-Chakan-Shikrapur National Highway (NH-548D).
This development is poised to enhance the region’s infrastructure, catering to the growing demands of both urban commuters and industrial logistics. The project encompasses the construction of a 25-kilometre, four-lane elevated highway from Talegaon to Chakan, complemented by a six-lane ground-level road extending from Chakan to Shikrapur. This dual approach aims to streamline traffic flow and reduce bottlenecks that have long plagued this vital corridor. The elevated stretch is designed to accommodate the increasing volume of vehicles, particularly heavy commercial traffic, which has been a significant contributor to daily delays and accidents. The ground-level expansion from Chakan to Shikrapur will further facilitate smoother transit for local and regional traffic.
This initiative is expected to have a multifaceted impact on the region. One of the key benefits will be enhanced industrial connectivity. The upgraded highway will offer seamless access to major industrial zones, particularly the Chakan MIDC, which hosts a dense cluster of manufacturing units. The improved logistics infrastructure is likely to bring down transportation costs and significantly boost operational efficiency for businesses operating in the area. Additionally, the project is aimed at easing the severe traffic congestion that has become a daily challenge for commuters. By redirecting heavy commercial vehicles away from the crowded urban roads of Pune, the highway expansion is expected to reduce traffic volume and lead to smoother, more reliable commutes for residents.
Another critical outcome of the project is improved road safety. The expansion and modernisation of the highway are anticipated to curb the incidence of road accidents, especially those involving industrial workers who often travel during early morning or late-night hours. Overall, the project promises to address long-standing infrastructural bottlenecks and support Pune’s evolution into a more efficient, connected, and safer urban-industrial hub. The project will be executed under the Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, with the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) overseeing its implementation. Land acquisition is underway, and construction is expected to commence following the completion of necessary environmental clearances and finalisation of tenders.
This development marks a pivotal step in addressing the infrastructural challenges faced by Pune’s rapidly expanding industrial and urban sectors. The government’s commitment to enhancing road infrastructure reflects a proactive approach to fostering sustainable economic growth and improving quality of life for residents and workers alike.
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