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Mumbai–Pune Expressway Missing Link: Deck Nearing Completion — Inaugation Possible by May 2026

  • Writer: Ajjay Bhagyakar
    Ajjay Bhagyakar
  • Nov 21
  • 2 min read

Pune / Mumbai, 21 November 2025 — Work on the long-awaited “Missing Link” on the Mumbai–Pune Expressway has entered its final phase, with cable-stayed deck erection progressing rapidly after the monsoon. Site observers and engineering updates now say only a short span remains to be connected — a step that should allow the deck to be linked end-to-end in the coming months if the current pace holds. X (formerly Twitter)+1


Quick snapshot


  • The Missing Link project will bypass the dangerous and slow ghat section, cutting distance and shaving off roughly 25–30 minutes from Mumbai–Pune journeys once fully operational. The Times of India+1

  • The scheme includes a long tunnel, approach viaducts and a major cable-stayed bridge (one of India’s tallest road cable-stayed structures) that spans Tiger Valley / the ghat. Afcons Infrastructure Limited


Current status & timeline


Officials and field updates report that most pylons are in place, major deck segments are installed and final cable tensioning and finishing works are underway. If momentum continues and no major technical or weather setbacks occur, the deck could be fully connected within roughly four months — putting a best-case inauguration window in May 2026. Local engineering posts and project monitors have highlighted this near-term target. X (formerly Twitter)+1


Why it matters


  • Safety & speed: The Missing Link will allow traffic to avoid the tricky ghat curves, significantly reducing accident risk and travel time between the two metro regions. ThePrint

  • Economic impact: Faster, more reliable travel will boost logistics efficiency, commuter convenience and regional connectivity — a tangible win for industry and daily commuters alike. The Times of India+1


Words of caution ( Mumbai–Pune Expressway Missing Link: Deck Nearing Completion — Inaugation Possible by May 2026 )


While civil works are largely advanced, remaining tasks — cable tensioning, bearings, surfacing, lighting, safety audits and statutory clearances — are time-sensitive. Weather, technical checks and post-construction safety certifications can shift schedules; previous targets for year-end openings have already been revised. Hindustan Times+1


Bottom line:

Mumbai–Pune Expressway Missing Link: Deck Nearing Completion — Inaugation Possible by May 2026

The Missing Link is now visibly close to being stitched together. If the present construction tempo holds and safety inspections proceed smoothly, commuters could see the transformational corridor open within months — a milestone likely to change travel between Mumbai and Pune. X (formerly Twitter)+1

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