Pune : The 173-kilometer-long Pune Outer Ring Road project, initiated by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) to provide a permanent solution to traffic congestion in the Pune Metropolitan Region, has gained significant momentum. Construction on three major tunnels passing through the scenic and mountainous terrain of Mulshi taluka has reached its final stages. Spanning a total length of 5.80 kilometers, these tunnels are set to completely transform the transportation network in the Mulshi region.

The six-lane tunnels are being constructed while carefully preserving the ecological balance of the Sahyadri ranges and the Mutha Valley. The project includes three key tunnels: Mutha-Mankarwadi, Ghotawade-Kasar Sai, and a tunnel connecting Mulshi to Mawal taluka. Considering the tough geographical conditions of Mulshi, modern engineering techniques are being utilized to construct twin tunnels through the mountains instead of building open roads.

Tunnels Constructed Using Advanced NATM Technology

The main excavation work for the tunnels has been successfully completed using the New Austrian Tunnelling Method (NATM) to cut safely through the mountainous stretches. Designed for a 6-lane access-controlled highway, all three tunnels are engineered to accommodate vehicles traveling at speeds of 100 to 120 km/h.

Equipped with Cutting-Edge Modern Facilities

Work on advanced ventilation systems, emergency safety routes (cross passages), concrete lining, and waterproofing is currently progressing at a fast pace inside the tunnels. Once operational, these structures will eliminate the risks associated with treacherous winding ghat roads, reducing daily travel time by approximately 30 to 40 minutes.

Direct Expressway Connectivity for the Pirangut-Paud Belt

The completion of these tunnels will directly connect key Mulshi localities—including Pirangut, Paud, Kasar Amboli, and Urawade—to the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the Pune-Bengaluru Highway. This seamless link will allow local produce, such as Mulshi’s famous Indrayani rice, fresh vegetables, and dairy items, to reach major markets in Mumbai and Pune within hours. Additionally, travel for tourists visiting local scenic spots will become significantly smoother.

Addressing the project’s status, Govind Gaikwad, Deputy Engineer of the Public Works Department, stated that 99 percent of the land acquisition for the Western Ring Road is complete, and most of the excavation for the three tunnels in Mulshi taluka has been finished. Current efforts are focused on internal roadways, lighting, and safety measures. The project remains on track to open for traffic within the targeted 2026–27 timeline.