MUMBAI PUNE EXPRESSWAY – DISTANCE, ROUTE MAP, COST AND IMPACT ON REAL ESTATE

Mumbai holds the status of being India’s commercial capital with substantial growth in terms of both size and population.
Similarly, Pune – recognised as the cultural capital of Maharashtra – is emerging as a prominent industrial and commercial hub. This highlights the significance of the Mumbai-Pune expressway.

Mumbai Pune Express Highway: Key Highlights

Pune Mumbai Expressway: Route Map

Starting at Kalamboli in Navi Mumbai, the Mumbai-Pune expressway makes its way through the picturesque Sahyadri hills and mountain ranges before terminating at Kiwale in Pune.

The expressway consists of five interchanges known as Shedung, Chowk, Khalapur, Kusgaon, and Talegaon.

The speed limit for cars on flat terrain is set at 100 km/h (62 mph), while trucks have a limit of 80 km/h (50 mph). In hilly terrain, the speed limit is reduced to half of the flat terrain limit.

Updated Speed Limits on the Mumbai Pune Expressway

The Mumbai Pune Expressway, India’s first six-lane concrete highway, spans a total of 94.5 kilometers between Mumbai and Pune, providing a fast and efficient route. However, adhering to speed limits is vital for the safety of all travelers.

As per the latest regulations, the speed limits for different vehicle categories are:

• Cars (M-1 Category) with up to 8 passengers including the driver
  
  • 100 km/h on flat areas
  • 60 km/h in ghat areas
• Passenger Vehicles (M-2 and M-3 Categories)with more than 9 passengers:
  
  • 80 km/h on flat areas
  • 40 km/h in ghat areas
• Goods Vehicles (N Categories):
  
  • 80 km/h on flat areas
  • 40 km/h in ghat areas

These limits are designed to enhance road safety, particularly in challenging terrains such as the ghat sections. By observing these speed guidelines, drivers can ensure a smoother and safer journey, whether traversing the flat stretches or navigating the scenic ghat areas of this vital expressway.

Pune Mumbai Expressway: Construction Cost

The Government of Maharashtra undertook the Mumbai-Pune Expressway, considered one of the most ambitious transportation projects. It was inaugurated and opened to traffic on April 5, 2000.

The estimated project value, including escalation and interest during the construction period, amounted to approximately ₹1,630 crores ($350 million).

The latest construction machinery was utilised to ensure timely completion, with a cost of approximately ₹300 crores ($60 million) allocated solely for this purpose.

Missing Link of the Mumbai Pune Expressway

The Mumbai Pune Expressway, is undergoing a transformative upgrade with the addition of the 'Missing Link' project. This 13.3 km extension, managed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), is designed to address congestion in the Khandala Ghat section by introducing a more streamlined route. Featuring two eight-lane tunnels of 1.75 km and 8.92 km, along with viaducts spanning 790 m and 650 m, the Missing Link incorporates cutting-edge engineering such as cable-stayed bridge technology to navigate the mountainous terrain. This ambitious project is set to significantly improve traffic flow and ensure safer travel.

Upon completion, the Missing Link is expected to reduce the overall Mumbai Pune Expressway distance by approximately 6 km and cut travel time by an estimated 25 minutes. It will also bypass accident-prone sections, enhancing safety for motorists. As of December 2024, the project is reported to be nearly 90% complete, with the MSRDC targeting a launch date in June 2025. These advancements highlight the strategic importance of the Missing Link in making commutes between Mumbai and Pune faster, safer, and more efficient.

Mumbai Pune Expressway Toll Rates

Toll charges are levied at Khalapur (Pali Phata) for vehicles travelling from Mumbai to Pune and at Talegaon for those travelling from Pune to Mumbai.

The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) recently implemented an 18 per cent increase in toll rates on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway starting from April 1, 2023.

The following provides a detailed breakdown of the updated toll rates.

Impact of Mumbai-Pune Expressway on Real Estate

The Mumbai-Pune expressway is not only a notable landmark but also a solid foundation for the development of modern infrastructure. Alongside the bustling expressway, the area is close to verdant spaces and boasts splendid views of the Sahyadri mountain range.

Unsurprisingly, the regions in close proximity to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway have experienced a surge in the real estate market. The demand for housing in these areas has been primarily fuelled by individuals employed in nearby industrial zones, enticed by attractive prices and promising future development.

In comparison to 2015, the average property prices in these areas have witnessed substantial growth. The presence of scenic beauty, lakeside views, a pollution-free environment, and natural surroundings has captivated an increasing number of residential projects along the expressway. This allure of a green environment and a close connection with nature also drives developers and buyers to invest in the residential sector.

As the cities expand to accommodate more housing projects, the Mumbai to Pune express highway has emerged as a promising growth opportunity in the real estate sector. The region also offers a wealth of opportunities for property investors, including long-term returns and renting options.

Read More: Mumbai-Pune Expressway: Boosting Connectivity & Real Estate Growth

Conclusion

The Mumbai-Pune Expressway boasts breath taking beauty adorned with lush greenery, stunning landscapes, and picturesque views. It has grown into a sought-after destination for people in search of their dream homes, real estate developers, and investors.

If you’re looking for luxurious residential apartments with good connectivity to major cities in Mumbai, take an E-tour of the Piramal Realty residences to experience luxury living. As one of the top real estate companies in India, it offers luxurious residences with excellent access to prime locations.

Disclaimer- This article is based on the information publicly available for general use as well as reference links mentioned herein. We do not claim any responsibility regarding the genuineness of the same. The information provided herein does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice; instead, it is for general informational purposes only. We expressly disclaim any liability, which may arise due to any decision taken by any person/s basis the article hereof. Readers should obtain separate advice with respect to any particular information provided herein.