Mumbai-Pune Expressway To Become 10-Lane Highway To Ease Traffic Congestion

Last Updated:June 18, 2025, 16:02 IST

The expansion is expected to significantly improve traffic flow, cut down travel time, and reduce the risk of accidents caused by sudden braking and lane-changing

The vital 94.5-km stretch connects Mumbai and Pune, two major economic and cultural hubs in Maharashtra. (PTI)

The iconic Mumbai-Pune Expressway—India’s first access-controlled expressway—is set for a major expansion. The six-lane highway will soon be widened to 10 lanes in a move aimed at reducing traffic congestion and making travel safer and quicker for lakhs of daily commuters.

The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is spearheading this ambitious project, with an estimated cost of around Rs 14,000 crore. The proposal has been prepared and will be sent to the state cabinet for final approval. Once greenlit, work will begin in a phased manner.

The vital 94.5-km stretch connects Mumbai and Pune, two major economic and cultural hubs in Maharashtra. Over the years, vehicle traffic has increased dramatically, especially during weekends, holidays, and peak hours, leading to frequent bottlenecks, delays, and accidents.

To ease the pressure, authorities plan to add two more lanes on either side, turning it into a 10-lane expressway. This expansion is expected to significantly improve traffic flow, cut down travel time, and reduce the risk of accidents caused by sudden braking and lane-changing. “Current road capacity is insufficient to handle the rising traffic volume. Detailed surveys have confirmed the need for additional lanes," a source said. A second survey is underway to assess land acquisition needs and finalise technical requirements.

The expanded expressway will also feature modern safety measures and improved emergency response systems, making it more secure for travellers. With better infrastructure, smoother overtaking, and less congestion, the drive between Mumbai and Pune is expected to become much more pleasant. Apart from easing travel, the upgrade is also expected to boost economic activity across the region. Better road connectivity often leads to increased trade, tourism, and investments in surrounding areas—giving a fillip to Maharashtra’s development plans.

For thousands of daily commuters, logistics operators, and weekend travellers, the expansion brings welcome relief. Once completed, the journey between the two cities could be not only faster and more efficient but also significantly safer. The project will be rolled out in multiple phases over the next few years, with timelines and milestones to be announced once approvals are in place. The only fear commuters have that the toll should not be increased due to the development.

Mayuresh Ganapatye

Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. He previously worked with...Read More

Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. He previously worked with...

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