Mumbai-Pune Expressway's 'Missing Link' Project: New Deadline Announced; Details Inside

The much-awaited 'Missing Link' project on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is set to become operational by September 2025, promising to reduce travel time between the two cities by around 30 minutes. This 13.3-kilometre stretch will shorten the current 19.8-kilometre route between the Khopoli exit and Sinhgad Institute by 5.7 kilometres, providing commuters with a faster and safer alternative.

The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), which is overseeing the Rs 6,600 crore project, aims to ease the heavy traffic congestion on the expressway, which sees about 60,000 vehicles daily. "We have completed 92 per cent of the work, and the remaining tasks are progressing as planned. We intend to start operations by September," said a senior MSRDC official.

Regarding toll charges, the official confirmed that the rates will remain unchanged for now but will be revised every three years in line with standard practices. The toll collection period, initially set to end in 2030, will be extended, with the state government to decide on the exact duration.

The project, which was originally set to finish in March 2024, has faced delays since construction began in March 2019. A major highlight is the construction of Asia's widest tunnel, which spans 23.30 meters. The twin tunnels will feature four lanes and an emergency lane each, with the longest tunnel stretching 8.87 kilometres. The development also includes a 650-meter cable-stayed bridge.

The new link is designed to bypass the steep slopes and sharp turns of the ghat section, offering a smoother and safer journey. Two additional bridges near Khopoli are being built to connect the tunnels to the expressway. While the existing ghat road will remain open, vehicles carrying hazardous materials will be required to use the older route instead of the new link.

Once operational, the project is expected to significantly improve connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and enhance safety on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.