Pune, 19 January 2026: The much-anticipated ‘Missing Link’ project of the Mumbai–Pune Expressway near Lonavala is nearing completion and is set to open for public use by May 1. The project offers a faster and safer alternative to the winding ghat roads, significantly improving connectivity between Mumbai and Pune.
A recent inspection of the site was carried out by the Sakal Media Group. Once operational, the new route is expected to reduce travel time by around 20 to 25 minutes, easing congestion on the busy Khandala ghat stretch and improving driving comfort for commuters.
The highlight of the project is its massive tunnel, described as the widest road tunnel in the world. Spanning nearly nine kilometres, the tunnel has ten lanes, five on each side, and is set to become the largest road transport tunnel in the country. Built using advanced engineering techniques, the structure is designed to ensure smooth traffic flow and enhanced safety.
Modern systems and cutting-edge technology have been used throughout the project, especially to address risks such as landslides during the monsoon. In addition, work on the cable-stayed bridge in the Lonavala ghat section is progressing at a rapid pace.
Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed MMRDA and other agencies to complete the remaining work by March 31. Technical trials and safety checks will be carried out in April, with the aim of opening the route on Maharashtra Day.
Once opened, the Missing Link project is expected to become a major milestone in Maharashtra’s transport infrastructure, offering faster, safer, and more efficient travel between the state’s two key cities.