How Missing Link Reshapes Traffic Flow, Easing Daily Bottlenecks on Mumbai–Pune Expressway

Around 70% of light motor vehicles have been diverted to the newly opened connecting link of the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, significantly easing traffic pressure on the Borghat section over the past 10 days.

Only 30% of heavy motor vehicles are now using the Borghat stretch, with no congestion reported. Officials confirmed smooth movement and no major traffic jams during this period.

The 19.84-km Khopoli-to-Kusgaon connecting stretch was commissioned on May 1. Built at a cost of Rs 6,700 crore, it has reduced the Mumbai–Pune distance by 6 km and travel time by around 30 minutes.

The new stretch features a flat alignment without major slopes or elevations. It includes eight lanes over 5.86 km, improving vehicle movement and reducing risks linked to steep gradients on the older ghat section.

Work on the connecting link began in 2019 and was completed over seven years. It was developed to address long-standing traffic issues and improve travel efficiency between Mumbai and Pune.

The expressway carries nearly 1.5 lakh vehicles daily. The new link bypasses major congestion points such as Lonavala and Khandala, where traffic jams were frequent earlier.

Highway patrol officials said vehicle diversion has reduced jams and improved safety. No major accidents were reported in the last 10 days, with improved conditions for both light and heavy vehicles.