Rs 6K-crore to spruce up Pune-Kolhapur highway: DPR Ready, Major Works on Tunnels, Bypasses and Service Lanes, Road Repairs to Ease Traffic, Accident-Prone Spots Under Review

A detailed project report has been prepared to upgrade the Pune–Kolhapur highway at an estimated cost of Rs 6,000 crore. The plan includes improvements to the existing stretch and augmentation of the Pune–Satara corridor. Authorities aim to ease congestion and enhance travel efficiency for thousands of daily commuters. (Photo credit: AI)

Construction of two tunnels near Khambatki Ghat is progressing, with one nearing inauguration. The tunnels are expected to ease movement along the busy corridor, which connects key cities and witnesses heavy traffic. The works form part of the larger effort to improve road safety and travel time on the route. (Photo credit: AI)

Funds have been allocated to develop service lanes along the western bypass. The improvements aim to reduce bottlenecks and create smoother connectivity for local residents and long-distance travellers. Upgraded lanes are expected to ease pressure on the main carriageway and improve safety, especially during peak travel hours. (Photo credit: AI)

Roadworks between Satara and Kolhapur have already been awarded, pushing the long-delayed project forward. Upgrades to this section aim to improve driving conditions and reduce frequent disruptions faced by commuters. Completion of pending tasks is expected to significantly improve traffic flow and reduce travel time on the corridor. (Photo credit: AI)

Key issues such as road safety, construction delays and infrastructure gaps will be discussed. The meeting will also consider suggestions from representatives to ensure better planning and timely completion of the pending works. (Photo credit: AI)

Authorities aim to finish road surface works, including repairs and concreting, within a year. This target is intended to reduce inconvenience for commuters travelling towards Bengaluru and other destinations. A smoother surface is expected to lower accident risks and improve driving comfort across the highway stretch. (Photo credit: AI)

Concerns have been raised about project delays caused by issues such as land acquisition, shifting utilities and blacklisted contractors. These obstacles have slowed progress over the years, leaving major stretches incomplete. The delays continue to affect thousands of commuters who rely on the Pune–Kolhapur route daily. (Photo credit: AI)

Accident-prone spots near Navale Bridge and surrounding areas remain a serious problem despite some improvements. Local residents say dangerous stretches persist, putting daily commuters at risk. Heavy traffic and inadequate road conditions continue to create hazards for vehicles entering and exiting the city, especially during peak hours. (Photo credit: AI)

Residents from areas like Katraj and Shindewadi report severe daily traffic jams caused by ongoing construction and poor road conditions. Night-time traffic entering the city also creates safety concerns. Locals say incomplete stretches have made commuting stressful and unpredictable, with long delays becoming a regular occurrence. (Photo credit: AI)

Travellers heading to destinations such as Wai, Mahabaleshwar and Kolhapur face significant inconvenience due to incomplete works. Popular tourist and pilgrimage routes connected to the highway see heavy weekend traffic, worsening congestion. Visitors from Pune and nearby regions say the ongoing construction has made journeys longer and more difficult. (Photo credit: AI)