Pune: A new 32.4-kilometer-long service road will be constructed between Khed Shivapur and Ravet to reduce traffic congestion and minimize accidents in Pune city. The road will have two lanes, and the project is expected to cost ₹604 crore. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) headquarters has approved the plan.
The construction work is set to begin in March 2025. The Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) has completed 90% of the land acquisition, while the remaining 10% is being handled by Pune Municipal Corporation (PMC). This new service road will reduce travel time by 20 minutes.
To address heavy traffic congestion at Narhe, Navale Bridge, Warje, Chandni Chowk, and Ravet, and to reduce accidents near Narhe and Navale Bridge, NHAI will build a service road on both sides of the existing highway. Each service road will have two lanes, significantly benefiting commuters.
Currently, around 2.1 lakh (210,000) vehicles travel on this stretch daily. With the new service road, local traffic and smaller vehicles will have a dedicated route, easing the burden on the main highway. At present, it takes 45 minutes to an hour to travel between Khed Shivapur and Ravet, but the new road will help cut travel time significantly.
Project Implementation in Three Phases:
Khed Shivapur to Katraj – New Tunnel Construction
Warje to Balewadi
Wakad to Ravet
Key Features of the Project:
A 32.4 km-long service road alongside the main highway
Two lanes on both sides
Each lane will be 3.5 meters wide
Direct benefits for at least one lakh (100,000) vehicles daily
Expected Benefits of the Service Road:
Reduced traffic congestion on the main highway
A dedicated route for local residents and smaller vehicles
Lower accident rates
Travel time reduced by 15-20 minutes
Fuel savings
Smoother and faster traffic flow
National Highways Authority of India Senior Engineer Subhash Ghante said: "The final stage of land acquisition is underway, and the tendering process will be completed soon. The project is expected to be completed within two years after work begins in March 2025."