Motorists Using the Unopened Stretch of Samruddhi Highway Raises Safety Concerns for Workers Installing Crash Barriers
Despite being incomplete and officially closed, the Igatpuri-Amane section of the Samruddhi Mahamarg (Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway) is already seeing unauthorized traffic, with speeding motorists endangering workers still installing crash barriers. Shockingly, even some politicians have been spotted using the stretch, raising serious safety concerns.
Dangerous Joyrides Before Inauguration
The 76-km section, expected to open in March, remains a construction zone, yet locals report cars, bikes, autos, and even government vehicles illegally zipping through—including two unlit tunnels. A Bhiwandi resident shared photos and videos as proof, questioning why authorities aren’t enforcing restrictions.
One image even captured a black SUV registered to a sitting MLA and cabinet minister, though it’s unclear if the minister was present. Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) and highway police officials remained unavailable for comment.
A Deadly Trend on Samruddhi Mahamarg
Since its partial launch in December 2022, over 200 fatalities and 1,750 injuries have been recorded on the expressway. While measures like tyre checks and break points aim to curb accidents, the premature use of unfinished sections adds new risks.
Once fully operational, the 701-km expressway will bypass the treacherous Kasara ghat, cutting travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur. But for now, reckless drivers are turning it into a hazard zone.
