The 53-kilometer, six-lane elevated road will stretch from Pune to Shirur, linking to the Samruddhi Expressway. The project aims to enhance connectivity between Pune and Nagpur, and significantly improve travel efficiency across the state.
Project Details
– Length and Route: The elevated road will span 53 kilometers, starting from Kesnand in Lonikand, Pune and ending at Shirur.
– Cost: The estimated cost for this monumental project is ₹7,515 crore.
– Implementation: The Maharashtra State Infrastructure Development Company (MSIDC) will oversee the project, in collaboration with the state’s Public Works Department (PWD).
Benefits and Impact
– Enhanced Connectivity: The elevated road will provide a seamless link to the 701-kilometer Samruddhi Mahamarg, an expressway connecting Mumbai and Nagpur. This will effectively shorten the travel distance between Pune and Nagpur.
– Economic and Tourist Accessibility: The new route will improve access to several key cities and tourist destinations, benefiting both trade and tourism. The upgraded connectivity will facilitate quicker travel to Konkan, Vidarbha, and southern Marathwada regions.
– Travel Efficiency: The road will provide a more direct route to the Samruddhi Expressway, reducing travel time significantly. Additionally, the upcoming connector of the Mumbai Trans Harbour Link and the ‘missing link’ of the Pune Expressway at Lonavala are expected to further streamline travel.
Simultaneous Upgrades
– Existing Highway Improvements: Alongside the elevated road construction, the existing highway from Shirur to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar via Ahmednagar will be widened and re-laid. This parallel development will complement the new elevated road and enhance overall travel experience.
Future Prospects
Once completed, the elevated road will bring significant improvements to the state’s infrastructure, making Pune and Nagpur more accessible and bridging the gap between western and central Maharashtra. The project is expected to set a benchmark for future infrastructure developments in India, reflecting the state’s commitment to modernizing its transportation network.
The state government’s approval and upcoming tendering process will pave the way for the commencement of this landmark project, which is poised to transform travel and connectivity across Maharashtra.