The long-awaited of the Pune Ring Road in has officially begun, after the project was first proposed more than 40 years ago.

Valued at £4.1 billion, the infrastructure venture is expected to transform in Pune, one of , by reducing congestion and improving connectivity.

Spanning 105 kilometers (65 miles) the road will connect key areas of the Pune Metropolitan Region, including Bopodi, Aundh, Shivajinagar, Erandawane, Kothrud, Hadapsar and Yerawada.

With two lanes in each direction, the ring road aims to divert traffic away from the city centre, providing relief to one of the most heavily congested urban areas in the country.

To navigate Pune's challenging terrain and dense urban infrastructure, the route includes 13 tunnels totaling 3.75 kilometers (2.3 miles), along with eight flyovers, seven viaducts and four bridges spanning railway lines.

These structures are critical for ensuring smooth traffic flow and bypassing obstacles along the route.

The Pune Ring Road project was first proposed in the late 1970s but faced years of delays due to funding challenges, land acquisition issues, and changing government priorities.

The project gained renewed momentum in recent years as Pune's population and traffic congestion reached critical levels, necessitating a long-term solution.

The Eastern Phase of the ring road is being constructed in four stages, with the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) overseeing the project.

Pune's rapid urbanisation has put immense pressure on its transportation infrastructure, leading to severe traffic bottlenecks during peak hours.

The ring road is designed to divert long-distance and heavy vehicle traffic away from the city, alleviating congestion on major arterial routes and improving the quality of life for commuters.

The inclusion of modern infrastructure features, such as flyovers and viaducts, will not only make travel more efficient but also safer.

The tunnels and railway-crossing bridges are expected to significantly reduce delays caused by Pune's densely packed road network and frequent train movements.

Beyond its role in easing traffic, the Pune Ring Road project is anticipated to have far-reaching economic and social benefits.

By enhancing connectivity between various parts of the Pune Metropolitan Region, the road is expected to boost local trade and tourism, reduce transportation costs and attract investment to the area.

Additionally, the improved infrastructure will provide a lifeline for Pune's suburban and rural communities, offering them easier access to urban resources and opportunities.