August 7, 2025: In a major boost to Maharashtra’s infrastructure, Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari has announced the construction of a new highway between Mumbai and Pune. Once completed, the travel time between the two cities will be reduced to just 90 minutes. The project is expected to benefit daily commuters, logistics operators, and industries functioning along this crucial corridor.
Speaking at the Lokmanya Tilak National Award ceremony in Pune, Gadkari revealed that infrastructure projects worth Rs 2 lakh crore are currently underway in and around the city. He acknowledged the challenges in acquiring land for the expansion of Pune Airport, yet reaffirmed the government’s commitment to improving regional connectivity.
The Minister reiterated the Centre’s earlier pledge to invest Rs 50,000 crore in road and highway development across Pune district. Key updates include the foundation stone for Rs 15,000 crore worth of projects to be laid within the next 15 days, an additional Rs 50,000 crore worth of work to commence by December, and feasibility studies already underway for another Rs 15,000 crore in road upgrades.
These efforts are aimed not only at easing passenger travel but also enhancing freight movement and industrial logistics across the state. Gadkari also disclosed that a private company had quoted Rs 3,600 crore for the construction of the Mumbai–Pune highway. The proposal was rejected due to high costs, and the state government will now undertake the project to ensure better cost efficiency and timely delivery.
The new highway is set to decongest the existing Mumbai–Pune Expressway, reduce travel time from up to five hours to just 90 minutes, unlock economic potential along the corridor, and improve last-mile connectivity to key industrial hubs. Gadkari also recounted the origin of the Atal Setu bridge, which he conceptualised during his earlier cabinet tenure—highlighting it as an example of successful infrastructure delivery under the current government.
Source: Trak.in
