‘Not A Tourist Spot’: MSRDC Warns Against Stopping On Mumbai-Pune ‘Missing Link’ After Videos Viral
‘Not A Tourist Spot’: MSRDC Warns Against Stopping On Mumbai-Pune ‘Missing Link’ After Videos Viral
Authorities issue strict warning after viral videos show people treating expressway stretch like picnic spot
Just a day after the much-awaited Mumbai-Pune Expressway ‘Missing Link’ opened to traffic, authorities have issued a strong warning to commuters: do not stop on the stretch under any circumstances.
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has made it clear that the new corridor is a high-speed route meant strictly for transit and not for leisure activities like halting, taking selfies or gathering on the road.
The warning comes after multiple videos surfaced online showing people stopping vehicles on the newly opened stretch, walking around, and even treating the area like a picnic spot. The scenes sparked concern over safety and triggered criticism about lack of civic sense.
Officials emphasised that stopping on the roadway can seriously disrupt traffic flow and increase the risk of accidents. The entire 13.3-km access-controlled stretch is under 24/7 surveillance through an extensive camera network, and strict action will be taken against violators.
Earlier it was on Atal Setu, now it’s on Missing Link. Proper picnic spot vibes indeed!
— Harshit Baranwal (@dtrancemaniac) May 1, 2026
And none of these folks will be penalized. 😶
(Video taken from Insta handle named @aartistic_nari) pic.twitter.com/6FFUZP72Jo
Authorities have already detected several instances of vehicles halting on the cable-stayed bridge soon after the inauguration. Such behaviour, they warned, defeats the purpose of the project, which was designed to improve safety and reduce congestion.
The ‘Missing Link’ project, opened on May 1, connects Khopoli to Kusgaon and bypasses the accident-prone ghat section of the expressway. It reduces travel time between Mumbai and Pune by around 20 to 30 minutes and is expected to ease traffic significantly.
Despite the improved infrastructure, authorities stressed that discipline on the road is critical. Speed limits have been set at 100 kmph for cars and 80 kmph for heavy vehicles, and drivers are expected to follow lane rules strictly.
Officials reiterated that the expressway is not a sightseeing destination. Any unnecessary halts whether for photos, videos or breaks, pose a direct threat to both the person stopping and other commuters.
The incident has also sparked a broader conversation online, with many pointing out that world-class infrastructure alone is not enough without responsible public behaviour.
