A new expressway connecting Mumbai and Pune is expected to begin construction soon, possibly in April, in a move aimed at easing traffic congestion between the two major cities of Maharashtra. The upcoming project will provide an alternative route for commuters and is expected to significantly improve regional connectivity while reducing travel time.
Currently, the existing highway routes between Mumbai and Pune frequently face severe traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours, weekends and festive periods. Authorities believe that the proposed expressway will help distribute traffic more efficiently and offer a faster travel option for passengers.
According to reports, the tender process for the project has already been completed and preparations are underway to start construction work next month. The new corridor will be developed in two phases.
The first phase will run from Pagote, located near the Atal Setu, to Chowk close to Karjat. This section is expected to help reduce congestion in several busy stretches along the existing routes and will serve as the starting segment of the new expressway.
The second phase of the project will extend from Karjat to Shivare near Khed Shivapur. Reports indicate that the tender process for this stretch has also been completed, and authorities are preparing to begin construction once the initial phase progresses.
Officials said the project is unlikely to face major delays since the land acquisition process for both phases has already been completed. The expressway has been planned following repeated demands from residents and transport authorities, as the existing highways between the two cities regularly experience heavy traffic congestion, particularly during rush hours and major travel periods.
The expressway will initially be built as an eight-lane corridor, with provisions to expand it to 16 lanes in the future if traffic volumes increase.
In addition, the new route will connect with the proposed Mumbai–Bangalore Expressway, which is expected to strengthen connectivity and support economic activity across western India.
Source: The Daily Jagran
