Navigating the 19km stretch from Katraj to Yerawada is a daily struggle for commuters, often taking nearly an hour due to severe congestion. To address this, the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) has proposed an ambitious Rs 7,500-crore project featuring two underground tunnels that could cut travel time by 30 minutes. The tunnels would provide an alternative to the existing road network, connecting major arterial roads such as Ahmednagar Road, Solapur Road, Satara Road, Old Mumbai Highway, and Mulshi Road. A feasibility study will be conducted by a consultant, expected to be appointed within two weeks, with a report anticipated in three to four months. Once approved, the project is estimated to take four years to complete, with funding potentially coming from the state government, municipal corporations, or MIDC.
Inspired by Mumbai’s Coastal Road tunnels, the proposed tunnels will have three lanes each and are expected to significantly ease urban mobility. The feasibility study will assess geological and environmental impacts, traffic patterns, construction methodologies, and potential disruptions to local communities. Officials highlight that this project could transform inter-city travel, making commuting more efficient. Residents have welcomed the idea, emphasizing the need for timely execution to prevent delays. If completed as planned, the Yerawada-Katraj tunnel could be a game-changer for Pune’s traffic woes, offering a seamless connection between the city’s north and south.