Mumbai–Pune Expressway ‘Missing Link’ Nears Completion, Opening from May 1

13-km Khandala bypass to cut travel time, improve safety and ease traffic

In a major boost for commuters, the much-awaited ‘Missing Link’ project on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway is almost complete and is set to partially open from May 1, 2026.

According to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation, around 99% of the work has been finished. The 13-kilometre stretch is designed to bypass the risky Khandala Ghat section, making travel smoother and safer.

The project includes modern structures like tunnels, viaducts and a cable-stayed bridge, helping reduce both distance and travel time. Once open, it will shorten the journey by about 5.7 km and save nearly 25 to 30 minutes.

One of the main highlights is a 640-metre-long cable-stayed bridge built around 100 metres above the valley. The route also has several tunnels, including one over 8.9 km long, along with a 1.75-km tunnel and an 840-metre viaduct.

With fewer sharp turns and better road design, vehicles will be able to travel at speeds of up to 120 kmph. Officials believe this will help reduce accidents and move closer to making the expressway a safer corridor.

The new route will also offer relief during the monsoon season, as it avoids areas prone to landslides and falling rocks, ensuring more reliable travel.

Although the project was earlier expected to be completed in 2024, delays due to difficult terrain pushed the timeline. Now, its opening is being seen as a major milestone.

Once operational, the ‘Missing Link’ is expected to make travel between Mumbai and Pune faster, safer and more convenient, while also reducing traffic congestion on one of the state’s busiest highways.