Pashan to Kothrud, Hingane to Dhanakawadi: Pune’s New Tunnel Plan May Cut Travel Time from 1 Hour to Just 15 Minutes

The proposed Pashan–Kothrud and Hingne–Dhankawadi tunnels are expected to ease traffic congestion across several key areas of Pune

Pune’s worsening traffic congestion and rapid urban expansion have pushed the civic administration to look for alternative transport solutions. In a major move, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the Pune Municipal Corporation to take up the Pashan–Kothrud and Hingne–Dhankawadi tunnel projects on priority.

With more than 72 lakh vehicles already registered in Pune, traffic pressure on major roads and junctions has increased sharply over the past few years. Officials believe the proposed tunnels could significantly reduce congestion and improve connectivity between major residential, educational and IT hubs.

Pashan–Kothrud Tunnel To Reduce Travel Time Dramatically

At present, commuters travelling between Pashan and Kothrud mainly depend on Chandni Chowk or Senapati Bapat Road. The 10–11 km journey often takes 40 to 60 minutes due to heavy congestion and multiple junctions.

The proposed tunnel will pass beneath Panchavati hill and directly connect Pashan, Panchavati and Paud Road areas. Officials claim the travel time could come down to just 10 to 15 minutes after completion of the project.

The tunnel is expected to be around 3 km long, providing major relief to residents of Kothrud, Paud Road, Sutar Dara and Pashan. Faster access to IT parks, colleges and residential areas is also expected to boost economic activity in the region.

Hingne–Dhankawadi Tunnel To Connect Sinhgad Road And Satara Road

The second proposed project is the Hingne–Dhankawadi or Taljai–Pachgaon tunnel. This route will pass under Taljai hill and directly connect Sinhgad Road with Satara Road.

Currently, commuters travelling between these areas have to pass through Swargate, Katraj and several busy intersections, making the journey lengthy and stressful. The proposed tunnel could reduce travel time from nearly 50 minutes to just 5–10 minutes.

The project includes a 2.4 km route with a 930-metre four-lane tunnel, while the remaining stretch will consist of approach roads. Officials expect the tunnel to ease traffic pressure on Sinhgad Road, Satara Road, Katraj, Dhankawadi, Bibvewadi and nearby areas.

Civic officials believe the tunnel network is not only aimed at reducing traffic jams but also at preparing Pune for future urban growth. The key objectives include reducing fuel consumption, saving travel time and creating faster alternative routes across the city.

Urban planners have described the projects as potential “game changers” for Pune’s transport system if implemented effectively.

However, several challenges remain before construction begins. The projects will require major financial investment, environmental clearances, geological studies, ventilation systems and advanced safety infrastructure. Concerns regarding ecological impact on hills such as Panchavati and Taljai are also expected to be closely examined.

Detailed Project Reports (DPRs) for both tunnel projects are currently being prepared. Final costs, timelines and execution plans are expected to become clearer after the reports are completed.