Missing Link on Pune-Mumbai Expressway With India’s Longest Tunnel and Tallest Bridge to Cut Travel Time by 30 Mins, CM Fadnavis
Pune, July 12, 2025: Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has described the ‘Missing Link’ project on the Yashwantrao Chavan Mumbai-Pune Expressway as an “engineering marvel” that will transform travel between the two cities. The project includes India’s longest road tunnel and is expected to cut travel time between Mumbai and Pune by 30 minutes.
CM Fadnavis inspected the progress of the ambitious project on Friday, accompanied by Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, MP Shrirang Barne, former MLA Bala Bhegde, and senior officials including Urban Development Department Principal Secretary Manisha Mhaiskar, Pune Divisional Commissioner Dr. Chandrakant Pulkundwar, Konkan Divisional Commissioner Vijay Suryawanshi, Pune Collector Jitendra Dudi, Raigad Collector Kishan Jhawale, and MSRDC Vice Chairman and Managing Director Anilkumar Gaikwad.
Speaking at the site, Fadnavis highlighted how the project would allow vehicles to bypass the ghat section of the expressway, eliminating traffic congestion and ensuring smoother travel. He praised the engineers and workers for their dedication in completing 94% of the work under challenging conditions, adding that the remaining work would soon be completed.
The Missing Link project comprises three tunnels, including a 9-km long and 23-meter wide tunnel, which will set a national record as India’s longest. It also features an 185-meter high bridge, the tallest in the country to date.
Deputy CM Shinde noted that the project employs state-of-the-art technology and is a game-changer for Maharashtra’s infrastructure. Once operational, it will not only save time but also reduce fuel consumption, curb pollution, and improve road safety.
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is spearheading the project, which is set to provide a significant boost to the state’s economy and benefit millions of commuters and businesses.
