The newly opened connecting link on the Yashwantrao Chavan Mumbai-Pune Expressway is under continuous surveillance, with authorities cautioning motorists against stopping their vehicles for selfies or photographs. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) said such behaviour poses a significant safety risk and violates expressway regulations.
According to MSRDC, instances have been reported of motorists halting near key stretches of the connecting link, particularly around the cable-stayed bridge and tunnel sections, to click photos. Officials stressed that stopping on the expressway is strictly prohibited and increases the likelihood of accidents on a high-speed corridor.
Inaugurated on Maharashtra Day
The connecting link project, often referred to as the “missing link” on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, was inaugurated on Maharashtra Day, May 1, by Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, along with Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Pawar, among other dignitaries. The project aims to streamline travel and reduce congestion along the busy expressway.
Speed limits notified for safety
MSRDC said the highway police have issued an official notification specifying speed limits on the connecting link. Light motor vehicles are permitted to travel at a maximum speed of 100 km/h inside tunnels, while buses and other passenger vehicles are restricted to 80 km/h. These limits are intended to ensure safe movement through the enclosed and structurally sensitive sections of the route.
Dedicated monitoring system operational
The corporation stated that the infrastructure, which includes two tunnels and two bridges, is equipped with round-the-clock CCTV monitoring. A dedicated control room has been set up to oversee traffic movement and detect violations in real time. Information regarding vehicles found stopping on the expressway will be relayed to highway police for necessary action.
Warning of penalties for violations
MSRDC has warned that motorists who stop for selfies, videos, or photography may face penalties. Officials emphasised that such actions not only endanger the individuals involved but also put other commuters at risk on a high-speed roadway.
Reiterating its appeal, MSRDC urged all motorists to adhere to traffic rules and avoid unnecessary halts, ensuring safe and uninterrupted travel on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.
