‘Missing Link Project is an Engineering Marvel’ – Maharashtra CM Devendra Fadnavis

Chief Minister and Deputy CM inspect ongoing works on Mumbai–Pune Expressway’s mega infrastructure project

Pune : Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis today hailed the ‘Missing Link’ project on the Yashwantrao Chavan Mumbai–Pune Expressway as an engineering marvel. Speaking after inspecting the project site, CM Fadnavis said, “This project features India’s longest tunnel and is set to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune by 30 minutes.”

Accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Member of Parliament Shrirang Barne, former MLA Bala Bhegde, and several senior officials including Principal Secretary of Urban Development Manisha Mhaiskar, Pune Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar, and MSRDC Managing Director Anilkumar Gaikwad, CM Fadnavis reviewed the progress of the strategic project.

Fadnavis stated that the new bypass will allow commuters to avoid the treacherous ghat (mountain pass) section, easing traffic congestion and ensuring smoother, safer, and faster travel. Once completed, the expressway will offer a much more comfortable driving experience.

The ambitious project includes three tunnels, with one tunnel stretching 9 km in length and 23 meters in width, making it the longest tunnel in India. This surpasses the record held by the tunnel on the Samruddhi Mahamarg. The project also features an exceptionally high bridge, reaching a height of 185 meters — a record for bridge construction in the country.

The Chief Minister praised the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) for executing the project with high-quality engineering standards. “Around 94% of the work has already been completed. The remaining work will soon be finished. I commend the engineers and laborers working under challenging conditions to make this project a reality,” Fadnavis said.

Deputy CM Eknath Shinde highlighted the technological advancements used in the project. “The Missing Link is being constructed using cutting-edge technology and will be a game-changer for the state. Considering the atmospheric conditions and air pressure challenges in this region, our engineers are performing exceptionally in tough environments,” he said.

He added that the project will not only reduce travel time but also solve long-standing traffic problems in the ghat section, preventing accidents and improving safety. The expressway upgrade is expected to save fuel, reduce pollution, and contribute significantly to Maharashtra’s overall development. “This project will be a major relief for the people of the state and give a big push to national infrastructure,” Shinde asserted.

During the visit, MSRDC Managing Director Anilkumar Gaikwad provided a detailed presentation on the project’s progress and key features.