Established in 2002 with the objective of shortening the travel distance between Mumbai and Pune, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway spans 94.5 km and serves as a critical artery in Maharashtra’s transportation network
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has put forth a proposal to expand the Mumbai-Pune Expressway into an eight-lane highway, aiming to tackle the mounting traffic congestion along one of Maharashtra’s busiest routes. Submitted to the Maharashtra State Government just a week ago, the proposal comes with a revised project cost of 6080 crores, marking an increase of 280 crores from the initial estimate of 5800 crores.
Established in 2002 with the objective of shortening the travel distance between Mumbai and Pune, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway spans 94.5 km and serves as a critical artery in Maharashtra’s transportation network. However, with approximately 155,000 vehicles traversing the expressway daily, concerns have arisen regarding congestion and road safety.
Crafted meticulously over several months, the proposal underscores the imperative need to upgrade the existing six-lane highway to eight lanes. The proposal cites the construction of additional bridges as a primary factor contributing to the escalated project cost.
Attributing the cost escalation to the requirement for additional infrastructure, MSRDC has urged the Maharashtra State Government to extend financial support under budgetary provisions. However, in the absence of government funding, MSRDC is contemplating alternative avenues to secure the necessary funds.
Sources familiar with the matter suggest that MSRDC may explore options such as securing loans and recovering the project cost through road tax. Notably, the road tax on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, currently scheduled for collection until 2050, could potentially be extended by 8-10 years, thereby prolonging tax collection until 2060.
The proposal for the expansion of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway underscores the commitment of MSRDC to address the pressing issue of traffic congestion. As Maharashtra’s transportation network continues to evolve, the successful realisation of this project holds the promise of smoother and safer journeys for commuters traversing this vital corridor.
