The ongoing conflict in West Asia has raised concerns over the scheduled May 1 inauguration of the much-anticipated missing link project on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway. Officials indicate that disruptions in the supply of bitumen—a critical material for surfacing work—could delay the project’s completion.
According to sources, the shortage has particularly affected the final stages of construction, including the surfacing of two cable-stayed bridges. “The tunnels (that are part of the project) were laid with bitumen a few months ago, once the structures were ready. But construction of the cable-stayed bridges was completed only recently, and laying bitumen is pending,” a senior official from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), the project proponent, told Hindustan Times.
Over the past two weeks, procuring bitumen has become increasingly difficult, with prices surging by nearly 50%. Officials attributed this to disruptions in imports from key West Asian suppliers such as Iraq, Iran, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Kuwait. The supply of light diesel oil, essential for asphalt and tarring operations, has also been affected. “Supply of light diesel oil, for machines engaged in asphalt and tarring works, has also been impacted due to the conflict,” the official quoted earlier said. “Given the circumstances, the inauguration may have to be postponed.”
Despite these challenges, some officials remain hopeful. “Contractors have been directed to complete all work by April 25, and load testing is likely to finish by April 30,” another MSRDC official said.
The 13.3-km missing link, featuring tunnels and bridges, aims to provide a safer and faster alternative to the existing ghat section, which is prone to congestion and accidents.
Source: Hindustan Times
