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Mumbai-Pune Expressway inaugurated: Fadnavis drives G-Wagen on new missing link
The 19.8-km stretch built by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation cost nearly Rs 6,700 crore and includes tunnels, viaducts, and elevated sections bypassing the Khandala ghat, cutting Mumbai-Pune travel time by 25–30 minutes and distance by about 6 km. The inauguration featured Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis driving a G-Wagen on the route, which includes a 182-metre-high cable-stayed bridge designed to withstand winds up to 240 kmph. The corridor enforces speed limits and opens initially to light vehicles and buses, with heavy vehicles restricted until at least October 31, while fog warnings and safety advisories were issued.
Why It Matters
The missing link is expected to improve connectivity, safety, and economic activity along the Mumbai-Pune corridor.
Timeline
7 Events
Expected impact on connectivity and economy
May 2, 2026
Officials stated the new link is expected to improve connectivity and safety and boost economic activity along the corridor.
Safety and weather advisories issued
May 2, 2026
Experts warned of possible dense fog during monsoon and winter, which could affect visibility on the corridor.
Heavy vehicle restrictions for the corridor
May 2, 2026
Heavy vehicles are not allowed on the route till at least October 31.
Speed limits and initial vehicle eligibility announced
May 2, 2026
A speed limit of 100 kmph for cars and 80 kmph for buses was set, and the route was opened initially only to light motor vehicles and passenger buses.
182-metre-high cable-stayed bridge highlighted
May 2, 2026
The expressway includes a 182-metre-high cable-stayed bridge over Tiger Valley (Umbarkhind), among the tallest in India, designed to withstand wind speeds up to 240 kmph with inputs from international testing.
Fadnavis tests the route by taking a spin in a G-Wagen
May 2, 2026
During the inauguration, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis took a spin in a G-Wagen on the new corridor.
Inauguration of the 19.8-km Mumbai-Pune Expressway missing link
May 2, 2026
The 19.8-km stretch built by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation was inaugurated, featuring tunnels, viaducts and elevated sections that bypass the Khandala ghat. The project costs nearly Rs 6,700 crore and is expected to cut travel time between Mumbai and Pune by 25–30 minutes and reduce the distance by about 6 km.