Mumbai in Minutes: Atal Setu To Mumbai-Pune Expressway Link Gains Speed, Completion Target February 2027
Mumbai in Minutes: Atal Setu To Mumbai-Pune Expressway Link Gains Speed, Completion Target February 2027
The high-speed connector is expected to significantly cut travel time between Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Pune while improving airport access and logistics movement.
Work on the crucial Atal Setu to Mumbai-Pune Expressway connector has picked up pace, with authorities targeting completion of the project by February 2027.
The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) said major construction milestones have already been achieved on the 7.35-km six-lane corridor, which will provide direct connectivity between Atal Setu and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway through Chirle and Palaspe in Navi Mumbai.
Officials said foundation work has been completed at 143 out of 176 locations. Piers have been constructed at 141 sites, while 88 of those locations have already received pier caps. Out of the total 830 required precast girders, 653 have been erected so far.
The project is considered one of the most important road links in the Mumbai Metropolitan Region as it will create a signal-free route connecting South Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and Pune.
Additional road widening work is also underway in the Palaspe area, where slip roads and service roads are being expanded to improve traffic flow and ensure smoother access to the expressway once the connector opens.
The route is also expected to become a key approach road to the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, located near Chirle. Once operational, travellers from Mumbai and Pune are likely to get faster access to the airport.
According to officials, the connector includes elevated corridors at Chirle and Palaspe, which will integrate with the existing JNPT Highway and strengthen freight movement to the port region.
MMRDA said the project forms a major part of its larger “Mumbai in Minutes” vision aimed at reducing travel time through integrated transport networks such as sea bridges, expressways and metro corridors.
Metropolitan Commissioner said the corridor will provide seamless and signal-free travel to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway via Atal Setu.
“This connectivity will make daily travel between Mumbai and Pune faster and easier. Travelling for work or education will become more convenient. The real purpose of the ‘Mumbai in Minutes’ concept is to strengthen connectivity and reduce travel time from hours to minutes while building Mumbai 3.0,” he said.
Once completed, the new link is expected to boost regional economic growth, logistics efficiency, industrial investment and job creation across Mumbai, Navi Mumbai and nearby areas.
