January 17, 2026: The long-pending Mumbai–Pune Expressway missing link is approaching completion and is expected to ease travel between Maharashtra’s two major cities by cutting congestion and improving road safety. Officials have said the new stretch is scheduled to open by the end of March 2026 and could reduce travel time by up to 30 minutes.
The project is being executed by the Maharashtra Expressways Industrial Development Corporation (MEIDC), which has confirmed that construction work on the missing link is in its final stages. Once operational, the new section will bypass the Khandala ghat, a stretch known for steep gradients, frequent traffic snarls, and bottlenecks, particularly during peak hours and the monsoon season.
The missing link spans 13.3 km and runs between Kasarvati and Ambivli on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. Instead of navigating the existing winding route through the ghat section between Lonavala and Khandala, vehicles will be able to use a straighter and more secure alignment. The new infrastructure includes long tunnels and elevated viaducts designed to handle the challenging terrain and weather conditions of the Sahyadri ranges.
According to MEIDC officials, the upgraded stretch is expected to significantly improve safety by reducing accident risks in a section that experiences heavy traffic flow. The modern design is also aimed at offering smoother and more predictable journeys, benefiting daily commuters, commercial transport operators, and weekend travellers alike.
Officials familiar with the project said the missing link would bring greater certainty to commute times for truck drivers, business travellers, and tourists who rely on the expressway for regular travel between Mumbai and Pune. Reduced travel time is also expected to result in lower fuel consumption and less vehicle wear and tear.
MEIDC’s Vice-Chairman and Managing Director, Devendra Fadnavis, recently told reporters that “we are leaving no stone unturned to complete the project by March next year.” He further added that “rigorous safety assessments will be conducted before opening the traffic link.”
