Amid traffic woes on Mumbai-Pune highway, Maharashtra govt. inaugurates ‘Missing Link’ project

Why in news

The Maharashtra government inaugurated the 'Missing Link' project of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway to bypass a risky ghat section and reduce travel time.

Background

The project was completed at a cost of ₹7,181 crore and features Asia's widest underground tunnel. It is expected to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune by 30 minutes and boost the state's economy by ₹70,000 crore.

Facts for Prelims

• FactThe 'Missing Link' project cost ₹7,181 crore.
• FactThe project aims to reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune by 30 minutes.
• PlaceThe project bypasses a risky ghat section near Lonavala.
• S&TThe project features Asia's widest underground tunnel.

For Mains

Q. Discuss how large-scale infrastructure projects like the Mumbai-Pune 'Missing Link' contribute to regional economic integration and logistical efficiency in India.

Dimensions to cover in your answer

• Economic multiplier: Potential ₹70,000 crore boost to state economy through improved connectivity
• Logistical efficiency: Reduction of 30 minutes in travel time and bypassing hazardous ghat sections

Keywords: Infrastructure development · Regional connectivity · Economic multiplier · Logistical efficiency · Urban-Rural integration

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