The Mumbai-Pune expressway is undergoing a significant expansion project aimed at enhancing connectivity and reducing travel time for motorists. The expansion plan includes widening the motorway from six to eight lanes in two key sections: between the Khalapur toll booth and the Khopoli entry, as well as from the Lonavala exit to the Sinhgad Institute ramp.
Another significant project is the expansion of the missing link, a 12.1-kilometre diversion around the Khandala Ghat Expressway. This crucial phase of the project is scheduled to be finished by July 2024.
The progress of the missing link project is currently at 71%, with the tunnel work nearing 90% completion. Afcons is responsible for the bridge portion, while Navayuga Engineering is tasked with constructing the tunnels.
It comprises two sets of twin tunnels, two viaducts (including a cable-stayed bridge), and two tunnel sets. The missing link will provide a seamless travel experience for motorists travelling from Mumbai to Pune.
Upon completion, travellers can exit at Khopoli and seamlessly enter Tunnel 1, followed by a 640-metre cable-stayed viaduct bridge, and then continue through Tunnel 2.
This expansion project also boasts some remarkable features, such as the world's widest tunnels, each spanning 23.75 metres in width, and India's highest cable-stayed road bridge, towering at 132 metres above ground level.
However, there are also proposals to widen the Expressway's remaining 70 kilometres. Maharashtra State Road Development is also considering widening the remaining 70 km of the expressway. It involves the construction of four viaducts, four tunnels, 200 culverts, four significant bridges, and two railway overbridges.
The cost of the project is estimated to be INR 3,000 crore. The plan is prepared to be submitted for government approval. It is anticipated that the project will be finished in at least three years.
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