Archive · 6 Jan 2026
Pune-Mumbai Expressway Missing Link May Open May 1
The Pune-Mumbai expressway is getting a new 13-km section called the 'missing link.'
This part includes two big tunnels, two viaducts, and a tall bridge.
Once it opens on May 1, 2026, it will help cars go faster between Pune and Mumbai, cutting travel time by about 30 minutes.
Right now, this part is very busy and often has traffic jams, especially on weekends.
The new link will let cars go around the busy and hilly part near Lonavla and Khandala, making the trip smoother and quicker.
The expressway is already used by a lot of cars every day, and this new section will help make the trip better for everyone.
The 13-km 'missing link' of the Pune-Mumbai expressway is 98% complete and may open on May 1, 2026.
The project includes two eight-lane tunnels, two viaducts, and a 640-metre cable-stayed bridge above the Tiger Valley.
The link will allow motorists to bypass the congested Lonavla-Khandala ghat section, reducing travel time by 30 minutes.
Currently, the expressway sees 75,000 vehicles daily, increasing to 120,000 on weekends, causing traffic jams.
The project aims to alleviate chronic congestion and improve travel efficiency between Pune and Mumbai.
- Who
- Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC)
- What
- Completion of the 13-km 'missing link' of the Pune-Mumbai expressway
- When
- Expected to open on May 1, 2026
- Where
- Between Khopoli and Sinhgad Institute, bypassing Lonavla-Khandala ghat section
- Why
- To reduce travel time and alleviate traffic congestion
- Project Length
- 13 km
- Expected Opening Date
- May 1, 2026
- Tunnels
- Two (1.75 km and 8.92 km long)
- Viaducts
- Two (790 m and 650 m long)
- Bridge
- 640-metre cable-stayed bridge
- Current Daily Traffic
- 75,000 vehicles (up to 120,000 on weekends)
- Travel Time Reduction
- 30 minutes