The long awaited missing link on the Pune Mumbai Expressway near Lonavla is expected to open to the public on May 1, offering significant relief to daily commuters by reducing travel time by at least 30 minutes. According to Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation officials, the project is now 98 percent complete and has entered its final phase, with all remaining work being closely monitored to meet safety and quality standards.
The expressway upgrade includes two tunnels measuring 8.9 kilometres and 1.9 kilometres, along with a 650 metre cable stayed bridge constructed more than 180 metres above ground in the Tiger Valley region. While tunnel work has been completed, final construction on the bridge is nearing completion after delays caused by monsoon related safety concerns. Officials said the project cost stands at approximately Rs 6,695 crore and stressed that work was paced carefully to avoid risks to workers and future commuters.