Union Cabinet Approves 6-Lane High-Speed Greenfield Highway to Revolutionize Connectivity Between Mumbai, Pune and Goa
In a major infrastructure boost, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of a 6-lane, access-controlled Greenfield High-Speed National Highway. This ambitious project will stretch 29.219 km, linking JNPA Port (Pagote) to Chowk in Maharashtra. Developed under the Build, Operate, and Transfer (BOT-Toll) model, the project comes with a capital investment of ₹4,500.62 crore.
A Game-Changer for Port and Airport Connectivity
The new highway is set to play a pivotal role in enhancing road infrastructure, aligning with the PM GatiShakti National Master Plan’s vision of integrated transportation networks. Given the rising container traffic at JNPA Port and the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport, the need for improved connectivity in this region has become urgent. Currently, vehicles take 2-3 hours to navigate through congestion hotspots such as Palaspe Phata, D-Point, Kalamboli Junction, and Panvel, where daily traffic volumes reach approximately 1.8 lakh PCUs. The operationalization of Navi Mumbai Airport in 2025 will further increase traffic demands, necessitating a seamless connection.
Seamless High-Speed Corridor with Tunnel Connectivity
The highway’s alignment begins at JNPA Port (NH-348) near Pagote village and extends to NH-48 (Mumbai-Pune Highway), while also providing connectivity to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and NH-66 (Mumbai-Goa Highway). To ensure smooth movement of commercial vehicles, the project includes two tunnels through the Sahyadri hills, bypassing the existing ghat sections. This will significantly reduce travel time and improve speed and efficiency for large container trucks.
Unlocking Economic Growth & Development
This 6-lane express corridor is set to revolutionize freight movement, boost economic activity, and enhance regional trade. By providing a direct, high-speed link between Mumbai, Pune, and Goa, the project will unlock new avenues for industrial expansion and urban development. The improved connectivity will not only benefit logistics and freight transport but also provide a smoother and faster travel experience for commuters.
Once operational, this highway will mark a new era in Maharashtra’s transport infrastructure, ensuring safer, faster, and more efficient connectivity between key economic hubs.
