The Maharashtra Public Works Department (PWD) has proposed a 135-km four-lane highway to ease congestion in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, with an estimated cost of Rs 120 billion. The new corridor will connect Shirur, Chakan, Talegaon, Shiroli, Karjat, and JNPT (Uran), offering an alternative route for vehicles traveling between Marathwada and Mumbai. The project awaits final approval from the state cabinet. Easing Traffic Woes in Key Industrial Corridors The Shikrapur-Chakan-Talegaon-Lonavala corridor is a vital industrial route but suffers from severe congestion, leading to long delays and higher transportation costs. The new highway is expected to divert heavy traffic away from Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad, improving logistics efficiency and providing a direct and faster route to Mumbai. Project Infrastructure and Design Features According to R Y Patil, executive engineer of the PWD, the highway will include: Four lanes for smoother traffic flow Eight village bypasses to minimize local disruptions A tunnel at Khandala Ghat, similar to the Amrutanjan Bridge, ensuring a steady gradient for uninterrupted travel The estimated budget of Rs 120 billion includes Rs 115 billion for land acquisition and Rs 85 billion for construction. The highway will be developed under the Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) model, ensuring private sector participation in its funding and maintenance. Economic and Environmental Impact The new highway is set to boost industrial growth by improving connectivity for key industrial zones in Shirur, Talegaon, and Karjat. Agricultural trade will also benefit from faster transport, reducing spoilage and logistics costs. Additionally, the project is under review by the State Environment Impact Assessment Committee to ensure minimal ecological disruption. Measures will be implemented to mitigate environmental impact during construction. Approval and Construction Timeline Once approved, land acquisition is expected to take one year, followed by 2.5 years of construction. The proposal is currently under consideration by the State Infrastructure Committee, chaired by the chief minister. Officials expect swift approval to accelerate the project’s execution. Conclusion The proposed Pune-Mumbai highway is set to revolutionize regional transportation, alleviating congestion and enhancing connectivity. By diverting heavy traffic, the project will improve air quality, road safety, and economic growth. With faster and more efficient connectivity, Maharashtra’s industrial and infrastructure landscape is expected to receive a significant boost.