July 3, 2025: The much-anticipated 13.3-kilometre ‘missing link’ road project between Mumbai and Pune, aimed at cutting down travel time and distance, is now expected to face further delays. Originally scheduled for completion in May this year and later extended to December, the project may now stretch into March 2026.
A senior official from the Maharashtra Transport Department confirmed that the implementing agency has sought an additional three-month extension, citing safety considerations and weather-related disruptions. “Work is ongoing on the cable-stayed bridge and must be executed with precision, considering commuter safety,” the official stated.
Rakesh Sonawane, Executive Engineer at the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), explained that the early arrival of the monsoon and persistent heavy rains have significantly slowed progress. “Although the project is in its final phase, rainfall has affected the pace of work,” he said. On the contractor’s extension request, Sonawane added, “It will be thoroughly scrutinised.”
The Rs 6,595 crore project began in 2019 and was initially due for completion in 2022 but suffered setbacks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Once completed, the expressway shortcut will reduce the existing 19.8-kilometre Khopoli–Kusgaon stretch to 13.3 kilometres, bypassing Lonavala via two tunnels measuring 8.9 km and 1.7 km, and two bridges of 650 metres and 840 metres. The 650-metre bridge is among the tallest in India, while the 840-metre cable-stayed bridge remains under construction.
The project promises to cut travel time between Mumbai and Pune by 30 minutes and save Rs 1 crore in daily fuel costs. It will also reduce vehicle wear and tear, with the new tunnels featuring four lanes and an emergency lane—making them Asia’s widest.
With tunnel work completed and bridge construction nearing its end, commuters and authorities alike remain hopeful for a smooth and safe launch in the coming year.
Source: The Free Press Journal
