Pune, August 5th, 2023: As part of an effort to address the persistent issue of traffic congestion on the Pune-Mumbai Expressway, the state government is considering a plan to add new lanes on both sides of the roadway. The Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRDC) has forwarded a proposal outlining this expansion to the central government. If approved, this initiative is expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion on the expressway.
The groundwork for the road expansion is already in motion, with a majority of the required land having been procured. The acquisition process for the remaining parcels of land will commence once the proposal gains approval. Estimated to cost around Rs 4,500 Crore, the project encompasses more than just road expansion—it includes the construction of tunnels and flyovers along the expressway to further enhance traffic flow.
For commuters frequently traversing the expressway, traffic jams that extend for hours have become an unfortunate norm in recent times. The highway police have undertaken several trial measures to mitigate the traffic congestion, but substantial relief has yet to be achieved. Monsoon-related minor landslides have compounded the issue, worsening conditions on the road.
In response to this challenge, officials have presented an additional proposal involving the expansion of lanes on the old Pune-Mumbai Highway, aiming to address traffic bottlenecks. A comprehensive strategy has been laid out, entailing the construction of 11 flyovers to effectively target critical congestion points on the old highway.
The proposed expansion of the Pune-Mumbai Expressway marks a pivotal step in enhancing regional infrastructure and addressing long-standing traffic concerns. The current scenario has not only impacted commuters’ daily routines but has also underscored the need for proactive measures to ensure smoother and safer journeys.
