Mumbai-Pune E-way missing link now open: 13.3 km bypass that cuts travel time by 30 minutes – What commuters need to know

Starting May 1, 2026, the Mumbai-Pune Expressway’s Missing Link will finally open to the public. This new 13.3-km stretch aims to solve the biggest pain point on one of India’s busiest routes — the dangerous and slow ghat section. This bypass will save commuters 20 to 30 minutes by avoiding the congested and accident-prone ghat section, offering a smoother and safer drive for daily travellers, business professionals, and weekend tourists alike.

Also read: Maharashtra CM Fadnavis inaugurates 'Missing Link' project on Mumbai-Pune Expressway

Places Covered by the Missing Link

The Missing Link starts near Bhandardara on the Mumbai side and connects to the existing expressway near Lonavala/Pune side. It passes through the Tiger Valley area and bypasses the steep, accident-prone old ghat road, making the journey smoother and safer.

Entry and Exit Points

Mumbai Side Entry: Near Khalapur Toll Plaza

Main Bypass Section: 13.3 km new alignment with the country’s tallest cable-stayed bridge at Tiger Valley

Pune Side Exit: Connects back to the Yashwantrao Chavan Expressway near Lonavala

Drivers will be able to use the new link without needing to navigate the old ghat curves.

How the Commute Used to Be Before

Before the Missing Link, travellers had to climb the steep ghat section with sharp turns, heavy traffic, and frequent accidents. The old route often took 3 to 3.5 hours from Mumbai to Pune during peak hours, with long traffic jams, especially on weekends and during monsoons.

How the Missing Link Will Change Your Daily Commute

The new bypass is expected to cut travel time by 20 to 30 minutes. Commuters and business travellers can now expect a more predictable journey of around 2.5 to 3 hours. The smoother alignment will also reduce fuel consumption and vehicle wear-and-tear.

Better Weekend Getaways from Mumbai

For families and weekend travellers, the biggest benefit is easier access to popular destinations:

• Karjat & Neral: Will become even more convenient for one-day or overnight trips.
• Lonavala & Khandala: Faster reach means more relaxed weekends with less time wasted in traffic.

As per TOI, real estate experts say demand for second homes and plotted developments in these areas is already rising due to improved connectivity. The Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) has welcomed the project, stating it will improve logistics, reduce costs for businesses, and boost economic activity between Mumbai and Pune, as per ANI.

The Missing Link will initially have restrictions on certain heavy vehicles for safety reasons. Motorists are advised to follow signage and FASTag rules.

(With TOI & agency inputs)