Mumbai–Goa Highway (NH-66) Likely to Be Completed by May 2026; Some Bridge Work May Continue Till 2027

Public Works Minister Shivendraraje Bhosale says long-pending project has entered final phase, relief expected for Konkan travellers before next festive season.

The long-delayed Mumbai–Goa Highway (NH-66), which has remained under construction for nearly 15 years, is now expected to be mostly completed by May 2026, the Maharashtra government informed the Legislative Council.

Public Works Minister Shivendraraje Bhosale said that work on the crucial highway has picked up pace and entered its final stage. However, he clarified that the Mangaon and Indapur bypass stretches will require more time to finish.

Replying to questions raised by MLAs Niranjan Davkhare, Praveen Darekar, Amol Mitkari and Shashikant Shinde, the minister stated that except for the two bypass sections, the remaining highway work will be completed by May next year.

The Mumbai–Goa Highway has been a major concern for people travelling to the Konkan region, especially during peak festive seasons like Holi and Ganeshotsav, when heavy traffic leads to long delays. During the discussion, legislators from both ruling and opposition parties criticised the slow progress of the project.

Praveen Darekar questioned when travellers heading to Konkan for festivals would finally get relief from the delays, calling it one of the most delayed highway projects in the country.

In response, Bhosale assured that stalled works have now resumed at full speed and commuters will see noticeable improvement before the upcoming festive season.

Key Updates from the Government:

• The Tamhini Ghat bypass is expected to be completed by May, which will help reduce traffic congestion in Mangaon.
• The main structure of the Chiplun flyover has been completed and is likely to be opened for all vehicles by May 2026.
• The Hatkhamba (Sangameshwar) flyover is scheduled for completion by the end of April.
• Some bridge works delayed due to contractor negligence may continue till 2027. The minister said action has been taken to speed up the pending work.

The Mumbai–Goa Highway is a key route connecting Mumbai with the Konkan region and Goa. Once fully completed, it is expected to reduce travel time significantly and improve road safety for daily commuters and seasonal travellers.