Mumbai-Pune road travel going to be faster, smoother

MUMBAI-Pune travel is becoming significantly smoother and faster with the "Missing Link" project, which is over 99% complete and scheduled to open on May 1, 2026.

This new route bypasses the steep Khandala-Lonavala ghat section, reducing travel time by 25–30 minutes. 

The "Missing Link" features India's tallest cable-stayed bridge and longest, widest tunnels to create an almost straight, 13-km route, replacing the congested 19.8-km ghat section.

The new section allows speeds of 80 km/h, higher than the current 60 km/h in the ghats.

10-Lane Expansion (By 2029-30): *MSRDC is widening the entire expressway to 10 lanes to manage rising vehicle traffic. *Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation Ltd.

Phased Traffic Approach: Initial opening in May will likely allow light vehicles first, with heavy vehicles allowed later. 

These improvements, including the 10-lane expansion, aim to significantly reduce traffic congestion and enhance safety, as seen in updates from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC).