The Maharashtra traffic police have announced stricter regulations for the Connecting Link on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, prohibiting all goods-carrying vehicles from using the new stretch from November 1, 2026. The revised rules withdraw the earlier exemption granted to light goods vehicles, directing them to use the existing expressway route.
Issued on October 26, the notification establishes permanent vehicle-category restrictions and speed limits for the Connecting Link. These provisions will remain effective until further orders.
According to officials, the decision aims to minimise congestion and reduce accident risks inside the route’s tunnels. Authorities said the movement of goods vehicles could disrupt traffic flow and create safety concerns along the stretch.
“The decision has been taken in view of traffic safety requirements inside the Connecting Link’s tunnels, technical considerations and discussions with stakeholders. This will prevent traffic jams and congestion likely to be caused by goods-carrying vehicles on this stretch and could prevent accidents,” said ACP Khalapur Vishal Nehul.
Hazardous Goods Transport Also Restricted
Vehicles transporting hazardous substances, including inflammable materials, explosives and other dangerous goods, will also be prohibited from using the Connecting Link. Such vehicles must continue travelling along the original expressway alignment.
Under the updated regulations, the route will remain accessible to non-transport light motor vehicles and authorised passenger vehicles, including buses. Cars and other permitted light motor vehicles will have a maximum speed limit of 100 kmph, while passenger buses and other authorised passenger vehicles will be restricted to 80 kmph.
The notification also specifies a 5% tolerance for detected vehicle speeds when determining violations under Section 183 of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988.
Focus on Tunnel Safety
The Connecting Link was developed to improve travel between Mumbai and Pune through a new alignment incorporating tunnels and other major engineering structures.
Officials believe the updated restrictions will help maintain smoother traffic movement and improve safety within the tunnels. The revised framework also clarifies which vehicles can access the route and the speed limits applicable to each permitted category.
From November 1, goods and hazardous-material carriers will therefore have to use the existing Mumbai-Pune Expressway alignment instead of the Connecting Link.
Source: Hindustan Times
