New Pune-Mumbai Expressway via Chakan to be Built at Rs 12,000 Crore

Alleviating Traffic Pressure

In a significant move to reduce traffic congestion in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, the Maharashtra Public Works Department (PWD) has proposed a four-lane highway connecting Pune to Mumbai via Chakan. The 135-km-long expressway, estimated to cost Rs 12,000 crore, aims to provide an alternative route for vehicles traveling between Marathwada and Mumbai. The project is currently awaiting final approval from the state cabinet.

Key Highlights of the Proposed Expressway

• The expressway will connect Shirur, Chakan, Talegaon, Shiroli, Karjat, and JNPT (Uran).
• Estimated cost: Rs 12,000 crore, with Rs 11,500 crore for land acquisition and Rs 8,500 crore for road construction.
• Developed under the Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) model.
• Includes four lanes, eight village bypasses, and a tunnel at the Khandala Ghat section.
• The tunnel will ensure a smoother journey, reducing steep inclines and traffic delays.

Executive Engineer R Y Patil Shares Project Details

R Y Patil, executive engineer of the PWD, stated that the project will decongest the heavily trafficked Shikrapur-Chakan-Talegaon-Lonavala corridor. Due to frequent bottlenecks, this route faces significant delays, increasing transportation costs and causing logistical inefficiencies. The new highway will offer a direct and faster connection to Mumbai, benefiting thousands of commuters and transporters.

Economic and Environmental Impact

The expressway is expected to boost economic growth by improving connectivity for industries in Shirur, Talegaon, and Karjat. Agricultural trade will also benefit from faster and more efficient transportation. Additionally, the project is under environmental review by the State Environment Impact Assessment Committee to ensure minimal ecological impact.

Timeline and Approval Process

The project proposal is under consideration by the State Infrastructure Committee, chaired by the chief minister. Once approved, land acquisition is expected to take one year, followed by two-and-a-half years of construction. Officials anticipate a swift approval process to begin construction at the earliest.

A Game-Changer for Maharashtra’s Connectivity

The proposed expressway is set to revolutionize transportation between Marathwada and Mumbai. By diverting heavy traffic away from Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, it will enhance road safety, improve air quality, and reduce urban congestion. With a more efficient route, Maharashtra’s economic growth is expected to receive a significant boost.

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