Ahead of the inauguration of the long-awaited Missing Link project on the Yashwantrao Chavan Mumbai-Pune Expressway on May 1, Maharashtra Day, Maharashtra Chief Minister (CM) Devendra Fadnavis on Wednesday posted a video of the project, describing it as an engineering marvel for the state.
In a post on X, Fadnavis said the project would reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune by around 25 to 30 minutes and improve travel efficiency on one of Maharashtra’s busiest transport corridors.
“This project will reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune by 25–30 minutes. A series of outstanding infrastructure projects has become the identity of our Maharashtra,” he said.
🌁 The Mumbai–Pune Missing Link, yet another engineering marvel!
Just 3 days to go…
It will be dedicated to Maharashtra on 1st May, Maharashtra Day.This project will reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune by 25–30 minutes.
A series of outstanding infrastructure projects… pic.twitter.com/1zCs2nLf0v
— Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) April 28, 2026
The 13.3-km Missing Link stretch connects Khopoli to Kusgaon near Lonavala and is designed to bypass the accident-prone Bhor Ghat, also known as the Khandala Ghat section. The existing route covers nearly 19 km, while the new alignment shortens the distance by around 6 km.
The project is expected to ease congestion, improve road safety and provide a smoother commute for more than 1.5 lakh motorists who use the expressway daily.
According to the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), the project includes major tunnels measuring 1.75 km and 8.9 km, built beneath the Lonavala Lake area, as well as a 650-metre cable-stayed bridge over Tiger Valley with pylons rising 182 metres.
It also includes viaducts, approach roads and capacity expansion works on the existing expressway between Khalapur Toll Plaza and the Khopoli exit.
The revised cost of the project is estimated at around Rs 6,695 crore.
Mumbai-Pune Missing Link project: Traffic restrictions
MSRDC officials said only light motor vehicles (LMVs) and buses will be allowed on the Missing Link stretch from May 1 to October 31, 2026, during the initial operational phase.
Heavy cargo vehicles, trucks and vehicles carrying hazardous materials will not be permitted during this six-month period. Authorities will also enforce speed limits and other safety regulations, including checks on overloading and vehicle fitness.
Officials said the phased rollout is intended to assess structural performance and traffic movement on the new alignment, particularly through the monsoon season. Entry of heavy vehicles is expected to be reviewed after further safety assessments.
Expected benefits
Once fully operational, the Missing Link is expected to reduce fuel consumption, lower vehicle emissions and reduce pressure on the older ghat section of the expressway.
The Mumbai-Pune Expressway is one of the state’s most important road corridors, linking the financial capital with Pune, a major industrial and education hub. The opening of the Missing Link is expected to significantly improve travel reliability, especially during peak traffic hours and the monsoon season.
Motorists have been advised to check official notifications from MSRDC and traffic police for toll details, access points and other travel advisories closer to the opening date.
