Pune-Mumbai 'Missing Link' Nears Completion; Opens May 2026, Cuts Travel Time

• Pune-Mumbai Expressway's 'Missing Link' project is 93% complete, set to open by May 2026.
• The project includes India's tallest valley bridge (181m) and two long tunnels (1.68 km, 8.87 km).
• It will reduce the ghat section by 13.3 km, significantly cutting travel time between Pune and Mumbai.
• Project cost increased from ₹6,690 crore to approximately ₹7,500 crore, with modern safety systems installed.
• The new route will also facilitate quicker access from Pune to Navi Mumbai International Airport via JNPA Road.

Why It Matters: The 'Missing Link' project will drastically shorten Pune-Mumbai travel and improve airport access.