On Maharashtra Foundation Day, Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis inaugurated the 13.3-km 'Missing Link' project on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. This initiative aims to bypass the steep and hazardous Khandala ghat section, enhancing road safety and connectivity between Mumbai and Pune. Developed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) at a cost of ₹6,700 crore (approximately $810 million USD), the project features two tunnels, two viaducts, and a cable-stayed bridge over Tiger Valley. The new route will reduce the travel distance by 6 km and cut journey time by 20 to 30 minutes. Initially, only light motor vehicles and buses will be permitted on this stretch, while heavy goods vehicles will continue using the existing ghat route. Notably, no toll increases are planned, ensuring affordability for travelers. The project is expected to improve road safety, reduce fuel consumption, and lower pollution levels, with daily savings estimated at ₹1 crore (around $120,000 USD).