Mumbai/Pune: Travel between Pune and Mumbai is set to become significantly faster and more efficient, thanks to the upcoming Shivdi-Nhava Sheva Sea Link—also known as Atal Setu—which will connect to a new expressway linking Solapur and Satara. This ambitious Rs 17,000 crore project is expected to slash travel time between Pune and Mumbai by up to 90 minutes, reducing the journey to just around two hours.

Key Features and Benefits of the New ExpresswayCurrently, the drive between Mumbai and Pune via the existing expressway can take 3 to 4 hours, often plagued by heavy traffic, particularly in the Ghat sections, leading to congestion and delays. The new expressway, a 130-kilometre, eight-lane route, is designed to alleviate these issues by streamlining traffic flow and minimising bottlenecks. It is expected to save travellers between 75 and 90 minutes, offering a faster, more convenient alternative that enhances overall connectivity between the two cities. Enhanced Connectivity and Direct AccessThe new expressway will provide direct connections to key locations, including the Atal Setu, Jawaharlal Nehru Port Trust (JNPT), Pune, Solapur, and Satara. This improved accessibility will not only benefit daily commuters but also facilitate faster transportation of goods, which is crucial as the region experiences rapid urbanisation and industrial growth. The direct access to these essential hubs will ease movement along this high-traffic corridor and support smoother logistics operations. Improved Commuter ExperienceAs traffic along the Mumbai-Pune route continues to grow, the new expressway is expected to relieve the pressure on the current Mumbai-Pune Expressway. While efforts to add a ‘missing lane’ near Lonavala have been underway to improve traffic flow, they may not be enough to meet future demand. By linking the Atal Setu directly with Solapur and Satara, the new expressway will offer a vital alternative route to alleviate congestion and enhance the overall travel experience for commuters. Boosting Economic Growth and Regional ConnectivityThis major infrastructure project is anticipated to drive economic growth by offering more efficient transportation options across Maharashtra.