New Six-Lane Highway to Boost Connectivity Between JNPA Port and Mumbai-Pune Expressway
Construction of a six-lane highway underway at the site, in Pune: Image PTI
In order to alleviate traffic congestion and boost infrastructure, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of a six-lane, access-controlled Greenfield Highway in Maharashtra. The 29.219-kilometer highway will connect Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) at Pagote to Chowk, with an estimated cost of ₹4,500.62 crore.
The project, developed under the Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT) model, is part of the PM Gati Shakti National Master Plan, which aims to strengthen road networks linking major and minor ports across India. The new highway will address the growing transportation challenges in the region, particularly with the increasing container traffic at JNPA and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, set to become operational in 2025.
Currently, vehicles traveling from JNPA to key routes like the Golden Quadrilateral (NH-48) and the Mumbai-Pune Expressway face delays of 2-3 hours due to heavy congestion in urban areas such as Palaspe Phata, D-Point, Kalamboli Junction, and Panvel. These areas witness daily traffic of approximately 1.8 lakh Passenger Car Units (PCU). The new highway is expected to significantly reduce transit times and improve freight and passenger movement.
Key Features of the Project
The highway will begin at JNPA Port (NH-348) in Pagote village and connect to the Mumbai-Pune Highway (NH-48). It will also integrate with the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and Mumbai-Goa National Highway (NH-66), ensuring seamless connectivity. A standout feature of the project is the construction of two tunnels through the Sahyadri hills, eliminating the need for vehicles to navigate the challenging ghat section. This will facilitate faster and more efficient movement of large container trucks, further reducing transit times for commercial transport.
Economic and Regional Impact
Once operational, the six-lane highway is expected to enhance port connectivity, streamline freight transport, and contribute to the economic growth of the Mumbai-Pune region. By easing congestion and ensuring smooth logistics, the project will boost trade, industry, and infrastructure development in surrounding areas. It will also support the growing demand for direct connectivity, especially with the operationalization of the Navi Mumbai International Airport.
