Rs 6,700 crore project: How 'missing link' will improve Mumbai–Pune connectivity

The long-awaited 19.8 km stretch on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway has been inaugurated, improving connectivity between the two cities and marking a major milestone in Maharashtra’s transport infrastructure development.

The new link bypasses the Khandala ghat section, cutting travel time by 25–30 minutes and shortening the route by around 6 km, offering faster and more efficient movement. (PHOTO CREDIT: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis/X)

Constructed at a cost of nearly ₹6,700 crore, the project includes tunnels, viaducts and elevated roads, showcasing advanced engineering solutions to overcome complex terrain and geological challenges.

A 182-metre-high cable-stayed bridge over Tiger Valley is a highlight, ranking among India’s tallest, and designed to support smooth transit across a difficult mountainous section. (PHOTO CREDIT: Mahrashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis/X)

Authorities opened the Pune-bound lane immediately after inauguration to ease congestion in the ghat area, while the Mumbai-bound lane was scheduled to open later the same night. (PHOTO CREDIT: Mahrashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis/X)

The bridge structure is engineered to withstand wind speeds up to 240 kmph, with international-standard testing ensuring stability and safety under severe climatic conditions, including cyclonic situations. (PHOTO CREDIT: Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis/X)

The bridge’s elevation may lead to dense fog during monsoon and winter, which could reduce visibility and pose challenges for vehicles travelling at high speeds.

Speed limits have been fixed at 100 kmph for cars and 80 kmph for buses, with authorities emphasising strict lane discipline to ensure safety and prevent accidents on the new stretch.

The alignment passes nearly 180 metres below Lonavla lake, making tunnelling highly complex. Earlier shelved, the project was revived after experts confirmed its feasibility through advanced engineering studies.

Initially, only light motor vehicles and passenger buses are allowed on the new route, with heavy goods vehicles restricted until at least October 31 to manage traffic and ensure safety.