MSRDC Plans ₹1,420 Cr Upgrade: Mumbai-Pune Expressway to Become 10-Lane Superhighway

The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has announced ambitious plans to upgrade the Mumbai-Pune Expressway from its current configuration to a massive 10-lane superhighway, representing a significant enhancement from the earlier proposed eight-lane expansion.

Major Infrastructure Overhaul on the Cards

MSRDC Vice-Chairman and Managing Director Anilkumar Gaikwad revealed that the corporation aims to transform one of India's busiest expressways to address mounting traffic congestion and accommodate future vehicular demands along this critical corridor. The official stated that the latest upgrade would require an investment of approximately ₹1,420 crore, with the Detailed Project Report (DPR) currently being finalized for government approval.

Growing Traffic Demands Drive Expansion Need

The 94.6-kilometer expressway, which was inaugurated in 2002, currently handles an estimated 65,000 vehicles daily during weekdays. However, this number surges to over 100,000 vehicles during weekends, highlighting the infrastructure's strain under increasing usage. According to MSRDC data, traffic volume on the expressway grows by approximately 5-6% annually, necessitating the proposed expansion.

The expressway serves as a vital link between Mumbai's thriving real estate market and Pune's expanding property sector, making this upgrade crucial for regional development.

Self-Funding Model Through Toll Collection

The comprehensive project involves extensive widening of the current infrastructure, with construction costs estimated at around ₹8,440 crore. The overall average project cost is projected to reach ₹14,260 crore. Notably, Gaikwad emphasized that instead of seeking government funding, MSRDC plans to finance the project through toll collection revenues.

This infrastructure development is expected to significantly impact real estate growth along the corridor, particularly benefiting areas like Khopoli's emerging property market and other locations between the two major cities.

Regional Development Impact

The proposed 10-lane expansion aligns with broader infrastructure initiatives that are reshaping Maharashtra's real estate landscape. The upgrade is expected to enhance connectivity and potentially boost property values in areas served by the expressway, contributing to the overall growth of the Mumbai-Nagpur expressway economic corridor.

The enhanced capacity will also support the movement of goods and people between Maharashtra's commercial capital and its prominent IT hub, facilitating economic growth and development along the route.