The Final Stretch: Mumbai-Pune ‘Missing Link’ Nears Completion

The Mumbai-Pune Expressway’s missing link project in Lonavala is nearing completion, promising relief to commuters who often face heavy traffic, particularly on weekends and during festive seasons.

The 13.3 km stretch, which winds through hills and valleys, is expected to cut travel time between Mumbai and Pune by up to 30 minutes. Key features of the project include two tunnels (8.9 km and 1.7 km long) and two cable-stayed bridges, addressing congestion caused by the narrow roads and heavy tourist traffic in Lonavala. The viaduct connecting the tunnels, one of the most challenging sections, has now been completed. Final touch-ups and lane widening near Khopoli are underway, with the missing link expected to open soon.

Originally scheduled for completion in May, the project is now slated to be fully operational by March 2026. Once open, the Lonavala bypass will reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune to approximately 2.5 hours, significantly improving travel convenience.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.