| Work Detail |
The Mumbai-Pune Expressway’s missing link project has been hit with another deadline extension, now set for completion by August 2025. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) reported that 92% of the work has been completed, with only the cable-stayed bridge near Tiger Valley at Lonavala remaining. The bridge, with pylons reaching 180 meters, is the final challenge in the Rs 6,695 crore project, which has seen multiple delays, initially targeting March 2024, then January 2025.
MSRDC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Anilkumar Gaikwad confirmed that 12.4 km of the 13 km stretch is complete, and the superstructure of the bridge is nearly done. The missing link project aims to shorten the journey between Khopoli and Sinhgad Institute by over 6 km and save commuters around 25 minutes, once operational.
The project is divided into two phases: Phase I involves the eight-laning of two tunnels, while Phase II focuses on the construction of viaducts and other infrastructure. Officials mentioned that while tunneling work is finished, the viaduct construction has been slowed due to extreme wind pressure at heights of nearly 100 meters.
The new route is expected to alleviate traffic congestion on the stretch between the Adoshi tunnel and Khandala exit, which currently merges with NH-4, contributing to major traffic delays. MSRDC estimates that 85% of current expressway traffic will utilize the new route once complete.
However, daily commuters have expressed frustration over the ongoing delays. MSRDC officials have reassured that work is progressing cautiously, with safety being a top priority, particularly given the high-altitude construction of the cable-stayed bridge.
The project will also result in an additional 15 years of toll collection beyond the current contract period, which was set to end in 2030.
Meanwhile, MSRDC’s proposal to widen the Mumbai-Pune Expressway from six to eight lanes is still pending approval. The Rs 5,000-6,000 crore project, aimed at reducing congestion, would require the acquisition of approximately 100 hectares of land and is expected to take three years to complete once it is cleared. Land acquisition costs alone, particularly for constructing tunnels, are estimated to be around Rs 800 crore. |
