The Mumbai-Pune Expressway’s Missing Link project is poised to revolutionise travel between the two cities. This ambitious initiative will reduce the travel distance by 6 km and cut travel time by nearly 30 minutes. The project, launched by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) in March 2019, is now nearing its final stages. However, its completion date has been extended to May 2025 and will feature Asia’s widest tunnel.
Mumbai-Pune Expressway’s Missing Link To Feature Asia’s Widest Tunnel
A Glimpse of Mumbai Pune Missing Link Project
In the Monsoon .
Full Video – https://t.co/lXbZVAnqBf@Dev_Fadnavis @mieknathshinde #mumbai_pune_expressway pic.twitter.com/C6vqhgXD8t— droneman (@dronemanYT) July 6, 2024
The Missing Link project, which is 85% complete, includes the construction of two tunnels and a cable-stayed bridge. These structures are designed to bypass steep slopes and hazardous sections of the existing expressway. The double tunnel, stretching from the Khopoli exit to Koosgaon in Lonavala, is nearly finished. Meanwhile, the construction of the cable-stayed bridge is progressing well, with 60 to 65 percent of the work already completed.
One of the most striking features of this project is Asia’s widest tunnel. Measuring 23.30 metres in width, this tunnel will feature four lanes, along with an emergency lane for each direction. The tunnel spans 8.92 km, making it one of the longest in the region. This advanced infrastructure is expected to significantly enhance the safety of the expressway, transforming the 19 km stretch from Khopoli exit to Sinhagad Institute into a ‘zero fatality corridor.’
Cable-Stayed Bridge
#Mumbai_Pune_Expressway#FREE_WAY#PICTURESEQUE pic.twitter.com/iVNmTHrdyc
— 🇮🇳 PROF: MADHAV GHODEKAR (@madhav_ghodekar) June 21, 2024
The cable-stayed bridge, another key element of the project, will be 650 metres long. It boasts a pillar height of 180 metres and a span of 305 metres between the pillars. This innovative design will help the bridge bypass the challenging terrain, making the route safer and more efficient for travellers.
The Missing Link project is not just about cutting down travel time; it’s about improving the overall safety and experience of the journey between Mumbai and Pune. By eliminating some of the most dangerous sections of the expressway, the project aims to drastically reduce accidents and fatalities on this busy route.
Despite the delays, the project’s progress has been substantial. The tunnels are in their final stages, and the bridge work is advancing steadily. Once completed, the Missing Link will offer a faster, safer route without adding any additional tolls for travellers.
Also Read: Air India Discontinues 55-Min Mumbai-Pune Flight Due To Low Demand; Check Other Flights On The Route
The benefits of this project extend beyond just time savings. It is expected to reduce congestion on the existing expressway, making the journey more comfortable for all road users.
Cover Image Courtesy: @dronemanYT/X (Formerly, Twitter)
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