Centre Approves ₹2,435-Crore Tunnel Project At Autram Ghat On Dhule-Solapur Highway
Centre Approves ₹2,435-Crore Tunnel Project At Autram Ghat On Dhule-Solapur Highway
Dhule, October 28, 2025: The Central government has approved the construction of a 5.50 km-long, state-of-the-art tunnel at the accident-prone Autram Ghat on the Dhule–Solapur National Highway. The project, costing ₹2,435 crore, aims to enhance road safety and ease travel for thousands of commuters who frequently face accidents, heavy traffic, and long delays along the ghat section.
The tunnel will be part of a 15 km stretch between Telwadi and Bodhre and is expected to significantly cut travel time between Sambhajinagar and Pune while reducing the number of accidents.
Union Road Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have been credited for their initiative and vision in modernising Maharashtra’s road infrastructure. The double-tube tunnel will include modern ventilation systems, emergency exits, fire safety mechanisms, CCTV surveillance, digital sensors, and a vehicle control centre, allowing vehicles to travel at speeds of up to 100 km/h.
The project will not only improve safety but also help conserve fuel, reduce travel time, and minimise environmental impact.
Local leaders, including former Union Minister Raosaheb Danve, Water Resources Minister Girish Mahajan, former Union Minister Bhagwat Karad, former MP Unmesh Patil, and MLA Mangesh Chavan, followed up persistently on the proposal and expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari for approving the project.
“Many accidents occurred at Autram Ghat, and citizens faced severe inconvenience due to congestion. A tunnel was a long-standing public demand, and with this approval, a safer and faster route will soon become a reality,” said a local representative.
The project marks a historic milestone in Maharashtra’s infrastructure development journey.
