Gadkari Pushes for Fast-Track Approval of Pune–Bengaluru Elevated Corridor from Narhe to Dehu Road

Pune, 22nd August 2025: Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari has directed officials from his ministry and the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) to accelerate plans for a proposed elevated corridor along the Pune–Bengaluru Highway (NH-48) within Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad city limits.

A senior NHAI official said the instructions were given during a meeting on August 7. “The project proposal will soon be placed before the Union Cabinet. The minister has also asked us to start the tendering process concurrently so that the work can commence immediately once Cabinet approval is received,” the official said.

The 32-km elevated corridor, spanning from Dehu Road to Narhe, was planned in two phases: Dehu Road to Pashan-Sus and Pashan-Sus to Narhe. The detailed project report (DPR) was prepared by NHAI nearly four years ago. In August 2024, Shiv Sena MP from Maval, Shrirang Barne, had raised concerns in Parliament regarding delays in the project.

Addressing the delay, Gadkari noted that arbitration issues with the existing concessionaire had stalled the project. “The government is exploring ways to mutually terminate the contract with the concessionaire to enable smooth execution,” he said.

According to NHAI sources, the 140-km stretch between Dehu Road and Shendre village in Satara is currently maintained by a private concessionaire, who has the right to collect tolls. “The legal dispute with the concessionaire is expected to be resolved soon,” an official added.

The elevated corridor is expected to significantly ease traffic congestion on NH-48, which is heavily clogged within Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad limits during peak hours. With rapid residential and commercial growth along the highway, the project is seen as critical to maintaining smooth connectivity between these areas and the rest of the city.