Mumbai to Get Faster Connectivity as Expressway Upgrade Nears Completion

New Missing Link route set to cut travel time by 30 minutes, easing traffic for Mumbai commuters

The final phase of a major upgrade on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is now in progress, bringing good news for travellers from Mumbai. Officials have said the long-awaited Missing Link project is almost complete and could be ready by the end of April, with load testing likely to begin in the next couple of days.

The 13.3-km stretch connects Khopoli and Kusgaon, helping vehicles bypass the busy and risky ghat section. This new route is expected to reduce traffic congestion, improve safety, and make travel smoother for people commuting between Mumbai and Pune.

Most of the construction work has already been finished. Only final touches such as road surfacing, safety checks, and testing remain. Once these are completed, the route will be opened to the public after necessary approvals.

A key benefit of this project is the expected reduction in travel time by around 30 minutes. It will also allow drivers to avoid sharp curves, steep slopes, and frequent traffic jams in the Khandala ghat area.

Mumbai Pune missing link expressway project- Road laying and Final Silver paint work underway on last remaining section of the project the 650-meter-long cable stayed bridge also India's tallest cable bridge. Deadline May 2026. (📹Civil engineering point) pic.twitter.com/W2XEnRBPne

— Indian Infra (@IndiaInfra02) April 18, 2026

The project includes modern engineering features like long tunnels, high bridges, and elevated road sections built across challenging hilly terrain, making it one of the state’s most important infrastructure developments in recent years.

Officials have indicated that the new route could open in May, depending on final clearances. However, they have stressed that safety checks will be completed before allowing traffic.

The expressway, which has been operational since 2002, currently handles more than 70,000 vehicles every day. With traffic continuing to grow, the Missing Link is expected to bring significant relief, especially for Mumbai-based travellers.

Once opened, commuters can look forward to a faster, safer, and more comfortable journey between Mumbai and Pune, particularly during weekends and peak travel periods.