Pune: The construction of the tunnel for the much-awaited ‘Missing Link’ on the Pune-Mumbai Expressway has reached completion, marking a major milestone in the ambitious infrastructure project. However, motorists will need to wait a few more months as the adjoining cable-stayed bridge in the Tiger Valley section remains under construction. The bridge segment is now expected to be ready by November 25, following delays caused by persistent rainfall and strong valley winds.
Spanning 13 kilometers, the newly constructed tunnel is a critical part of the ‘Missing Link’ that aims to ease traffic and reduce travel time on the expressway. The accompanying bridge, which is being constructed at an elevation of around 132 feet above the valley floor, has seen its superstructure completed. However, the installation of cables—an essential step in the construction process—is still underway.
Construction teams have been grappling with challenging weather conditions, especially in the valley area where heavy rains and powerful winds have slowed down operations and impacted safety.
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), which is overseeing the project, had originally aimed for an August 25 completion. With the tunnel finished but the bridge still incomplete, the deadline has now been shifted to November 25.
Once fully operational, the ‘Missing Link’ is expected to cut down travel time between Pune and Mumbai by approximately 25 minutes. The project, with an estimated cost of ₹6,695 crore, is also designed to enhance safety and reduce congestion by bypassing the sharp turns in the existing ghat section.
Highlights of the ‘Missing Link’ Project:
Estimated travel time savings of 25 minutes between Pune and Mumbai.
Safer commute by bypassing the curvy ghat section.
Smoother, more direct route enabled by tunnel and bridge infrastructure.
Significant reduction in traffic congestion in the mountainous stretch.
Commenting on the delay, Rajesh Patil, Joint Managing Director of MSRDC, stated, “The tunnel has been successfully completed. The bridge work is ongoing but is facing delays due to rain and strong winds in the valley. Despite these challenges, we are determined to meet the revised deadline.”
