Mumbai-Pune Expressway ‘Missing Link’ Project Nears Completion: Travel Time To Cut By 25 Minutes

The crucial 'missing link' project on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is progressing at a fast pace, bringing relief to daily commuters and long-distance travellers. The project has drawn the attention of Mumbaikars and Punekars, with Minister of State for Public Works Meghna Sakore-Bordikar inspecting the improvement work on Tuesday.

During the visit, she directed officials to complete the project by August while ensuring high-quality construction. She stated that once completed, travel on the expressway would become faster, safer, and more comfortable. The improved route will provide several benefits, including reduced travel time, lower fuel consumption, and decreased air pollution.

The 'missing link' covers the section between Khalapur to Khopoli Interchange and Khopoli Exit to Kusgaon (Sinhgad Institute). Currently, the distance is 19 km, but with the new route, it will be reduced to 13.3 km. This will save around 20-25 minutes in travel time. The new stretch is also expected to reduce traffic congestion on the Ghat Road and lower the risk of accidents.

Traffic jams and accidents are common at Borghat on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, while landslides during the monsoon season often cause major disruptions. The project aims to address these challenges and provide a more efficient travel experience.

Project consultants, contractors, and engineers from the Pune division of the State Road Development Corporation were present during the inspection. Additionally, key roads in Pune, including Saswad Road, Katraj-Mantarwadi Bypass, Old Airport Road, Alandi Road, and Mahatma Gandhi Road, are also being improved as part of the development.

Once completed, this project is expected to provide significant benefits to thousands of passengers using the Mumbai-Pune Expressway daily.