Maharashtra MLC Urges Caution Ahead of Mumbai–Pune Expressway Missing Link Opening

Milind Narvekar has written to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, urging the state government to exercise caution before opening the much-anticipated Missing Link project on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway.

In his letter dated April 27, 2026, Narvekar congratulated the government on nearing completion of the landmark infrastructure initiative, which is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune while easing congestion in the accident-prone Bhor Ghat stretch.

The Missing Link project, regarded as one of Maharashtra’s most ambitious road connectivity ventures, is expected to cut journey time by nearly 30 minutes and alleviate traffic bottlenecks along the steep ghat section, offering relief to daily commuters and transport operators.

However, Narvekar emphasised that safety and technical preparedness must take precedence over timelines. In his communication, he noted that the new corridor is technically complex and passes through an open valley area susceptible to high wind pressure. He also highlighted concerns related to heavy rainfall and dense fog, stressing the need for comprehensive inspections and the installation of advanced safety systems before the route is opened to traffic.

The Shiv Sena (UBT) leader urged the government not to rush the inauguration and called for clear directives to be issued only after all testing and safety validations are successfully completed.

As part of his recommendations, Narvekar proposed a phased operational approach. He suggested that, for an initial period of six months, only passenger vehicles should be permitted on the new stretch on a trial basis, while heavy vehicles continue to use the existing route to avoid congestion risks associated with slow-moving transport traffic in the ghat section.

He further recommended that tankers carrying fuel, inflammable, or hazardous materials should not be allowed on the new corridor unless comprehensive safety assessments are conducted, in order to minimise the risk of potential accidents.

The letter comes amid growing anticipation over the project’s launch, which is expected to enhance connectivity and safety between Maharashtra’s two largest cities.

Narvekar also referenced a recent incident involving a truck carrying flammable material that skidded on the expressway, triggering massive traffic congestion for over 24 hours. He recalled being personally affected by the disruption while travelling from Baramati to Mumbai, which prompted him to study the issue in detail and consult transport experts before raising his concerns with the Chief Minister.