After the massive traffic jam on the Mumbai Pune expressway, the urgency for the missing link project was strongly felt. As per the reports, the project is nearing completion. It will be operational by May 2026. It is a 13.3 Km stretch. Once completed, it will offer a shorter route between the two cities.
The traffic jam was caused by an overturned truck.
What is the Missing Link project?
The Missing Link is a major project of the Maharashtra government. The expected cost of the link road is over Rs 6600 crore. The plan is to replace a 19.8 km section between Khopoli exit and Kusgaon with a straighter 13.3 km stretch.
The current ghat section has sharp curves. Traffic from different lanes merges at several points. This design leads to frequent congestion and accidents.
The new link aims to solve these problems. It will reduce the distance by 6 km. Travel time will also reduce by over 30 min.
Key engineering features
The Missing Link features-
- Two large tunnels
- Two cable-stayed bridges
One tunnel is about 1.6 km long. The other is close to 8.9 km.
The mentioned tunnels will cut through the hills. Once operational, vehicles will no longer be required to climb and descend the ghat slopes.
The cable-stayed bridges will cross deep valleys. They are supported by high pylons. They are designed to meet earthquake safety norms.
The new road will be flatter and straighter than the old ghat section. This will allow more consistent speeds. In some stretches, vehicles may be able to travel at up to 120 km per hour, where speed limits permit.
Delays and current status
The initial completion deadline of the project was 2022. However, the corridor got delayed due to several reasons.
Difficult terrain posed challenges. The COVID-19 pandemic also hit labor availability. All these factors pushed the deadline back.
MSRDC officials now say that most major civil work is done. Only finishing activities remain.
It include the laying of the final road surface and putting the safety barriers. Teams are also completing lighting and ventilation systems in the tunnels. The last step will be testing and commissioning all equipment.
As per the officials, the project is now a top priority for the government. The officials are hopeful of a May 2026 opening. One the mandatory clearances are received; the stretch will be opened for the public.
What it means for commuters and freight
- Once the project is completed, it will reduce the burden on the Khandala Ghat section.
- Cars and buses between Mumbai and Pune will be able to use the straighter alignment.
- People will no longer need to use the old, winding route.
The benefits are not limited to daily travellers.
The corridor is used by good vehicles as well. Trucks use this stretch to transport cargo to and from industrial belts. With a shorter distance, transporters will save time and fuel. This will reduce logistics costs over time. Delivery schedules for businesses will also be improved.
