No More Chronic Traffic Jams at Khandala: Mumbai–Pune Expressway ‘Missing Link’ Nearing Completion, Khandala Ghat Set to Be Bypassed
No More Chronic Traffic Jams at Khandala: Mumbai–Pune Expressway ‘Missing Link’ Nearing Completion, Khandala Ghat Set to Be Bypassed
Final-stage work on tunnels and bridge promises faster, smoother travel and relief from chronic traffic jams
Commuters on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway may soon get permanent relief from traffic congestion at the Lonavala–Khandala ghat section, as the ambitious ‘Missing Link’ project has entered its final phase. Once operational, the new alignment will allow vehicles to bypass the ghat entirely, significantly reducing travel time and easing one of Maharashtra’s most notorious traffic bottlenecks.
The Missing Link is a new stretch of around 13–14 kilometres being built between the Khopoli exit and the Kusgaon area near Lonavala. At present, motorists have to travel nearly 19 kilometres through sharp curves and steep gradients of the Lonavala–Khandala ghat. The new route will shorten the distance by approximately six kilometres and is expected to save at least 30 minutes for commuters.
One of the standout features of the project is its extensive tunnel system. The main tunnel measures about 8.87 kilometres in length, while the second tunnel is around 1.67 kilometres long. Together, they form one of the longest tunnel stretches on any highway project in the state. Officials have said that around 98 per cent of the tunnel work has been completed, with only finishing touches remaining.
Another major engineering highlight is a cable-stayed bridge being constructed in the Sahyadri mountain range. The bridge, rising nearly 180 metres in height, spans the Tiger Valley and is considered among the most challenging infrastructure projects undertaken in Maharashtra. In addition to this, the project includes multiple viaducts designed to ensure smooth and safe travel through the rugged terrain.
As of late December, overall construction progress is estimated to be above 90 per cent, with some assessments placing completion at around 93–95 per cent. Most of the heavy civil work, including tunnels and viaducts, is largely finished. Current on-site work focuses on decking of the valley bridge, tensioning of cables, road surfacing, and installation of safety systems such as tunnel lighting, ventilation, emergency exits and monitoring equipment.
Once the Missing Link opens to traffic, motorists travelling between Mumbai and Pune will no longer need to navigate the Lonavala–Khandala ghat unless they specifically wish to enter Lonavala.
For through traffic, the new alignment will offer a direct, faster and more comfortable journey, especially during weekends, holidays and peak travel seasons when long traffic queues have become common.
Until an official opening announcement is made by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), commuters will have to continue using the existing ghat section. Authorities have advised travellers to keep an eye on official updates regarding the project’s launch.
The completion of the Missing Link is expected to mark a major milestone in road infrastructure, transforming travel on one of the state’s busiest expressways and delivering long-awaited relief to lakhs of daily commuters.
Disclaimer: Project timelines and opening dates are subject to official announcements by the authorities.
