A major infrastructure development in Maharashtra is nearing completion as the Mumbai–Pune Expressway Missing Link is almost ready for operations. The project, which forms part of the Mumbai–Pune Expressway, is expected to open to motorists soon, offering faster and safer travel between Mumbai and Pune.
The Missing Link is regarded as one of the most significant engineering undertakings on the expressway. It has been designed to improve connectivity and reduce travel time between the two major cities.
Once operational, the new route is expected to shorten the distance between Mumbai and Pune by around six kilometres. Commuters are also likely to save approximately 25 to 30 minutes of travel time compared to the existing route.
A key feature of the project is a 650-metre cable-stayed bridge constructed across Tiger Valley in the Lonavala region. The bridge’s pillars rise to about 182 metres, roughly comparable to the height of a 60-storey building, making it among the tallest road bridges in the country.
The project has been executed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation.
Another important component of the corridor is the construction of two major tunnels. One of these stretches for about 8.9 kilometres, placing it among the longest road tunnels in India.
The tunnels are designed to bypass the difficult and winding Khandala Ghat stretch, which has historically been prone to landslides, traffic congestion and accidents.
Officials indicate that nearly 98 percent of the project work has already been completed. The new expressway section is expected to be inaugurated around Maharashtra Day on May 1, 2026.
Developed at an estimated cost of Rs 6,695 crore, the Missing Link will allow motorists to avoid the challenging section between Khopoli and Kusgaon. Once operational, it is expected to improve safety and travel efficiency on one of India’s busiest expressways.
Source: Pune Pulse
