Mumbai–Pune expressway’s final gap closes: Missing link set to open May 1, 30-minute faster drives ahead

The much-awaited missing link on the Pune-Mumbai Expressway will open to the public on May 1, coinciding with Maharashtra Day. The new stretch is expected to cut travel time between the two cities by at least 30 minutes.

According to MSRDC, the missing link project near Lonavla is 98% complete and has entered its final phase. Authorities are closely monitoring the remaining work to ensure safety norms and deadlines are strictly followed.

Originally slated for completion in December 2025, the project faced delays due to heavy rainfall and strong winds in the ghat section. Monsoon conditions repeatedly halted work due to safety concerns, officials said.

With the project entering its last phase, MSRDC has stepped up on-site inspections and round-the-clock monitoring. The focus is on completing finishing touches, safety checks and system trials ahead of the planned May 1 opening.

The missing link includes a cable-stayed bridge located deep inside Tiger Valley. Officials said the structure requires precision and skilled execution, and work was deliberately not rushed to avoid long-term safety risks.

The project includes two tunnels measuring 8.9 km and 1.9 km, both of which are complete. Work on the 650-metre cable-stayed bridge and cable installation is nearing completion.

The bridge is being built over 180 metres above ground, making it one of MSRDC’s most challenging engineering tasks. Eight cantilever form travellers were used to complete the superstructure slab deck.

Around 1,000 workers are deployed daily at the project site. MSRDC officials said strict safety protocols are in place to protect workers, given the difficult terrain and technical nature of the construction.

Once operational, the missing link will ease congestion on the existing ghat section, which has sharp curves and steep gradients. The straight alignment is expected to reduce accident risks significantly.

The missing link project comes at an estimated cost of ₹6,695 crore. Regular expressway commuters say the project is long overdue and will greatly improve travel comfort and safety