The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has started repair work on a badly deteriorated section of road near Khopoli, connecting the Mumbai-Pune Expressway with the upcoming Missing Link project. The maintenance activity, which began on November 7, has temporarily restricted traffic movement, with two of the stretch’s five lanes closed.
The repair work covers approximately 100 metres of road that had suffered significant surface damage and required immediate attention. However, the timing of the work during the Diwali holiday period, when thousands of motorists travel between Mumbai and Pune, has raised concerns over congestion and delays along the busy route.
With two lanes unavailable, commuters have been experiencing slower traffic movement, particularly during the festive travel rush. Motorists have urged the authorities to complete the work promptly to minimise inconvenience.
Amit Dengale, a commuter, said, “During the Diwali holidays, when a large number of people are travelling between the two cities, even a short stretch of road restriction can cause delays. The authorities should ensure that the work is completed quickly.”
A senior MSRDC official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that repairs were currently underway on the two affected lanes. The corporation is using specialised epoxy asphalt for resurfacing, with the aim of improving the road’s strength and durability.
“The repair work on two lanes is currently going on, as the road surface has deteriorated and required immediate attention. We are using special epoxy asphalt to ensure better quality and durability of the road surface. Once the work on these two lanes is completed, we will take up repairs on the remaining three lanes.”
The official added that the remaining three lanes would be taken up after the ongoing work is completed. MSRDC expects the entire repair exercise to be finished within five days.
The project is intended to restore the damaged section and improve driving conditions on an important link serving traffic between Mumbai and Pune.
Source: Hindustan Times
