NHAI Plans New Route to Tamhini Ghat to Boost Pune–Konkan Connectivity

Pune, 26th February 2026: Administrative efforts have gained momentum to develop an alternative route to the scenic Tamhini Ghat, the shortest road link between Pune and the Konkan region. The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is preparing a plan for a new tunnel or an alternate alignment to address recurring landslides during the monsoon and traffic congestion caused by the narrow ghat road.

Officials said that a safer alternative to Tamhini Ghat would significantly improve connectivity between Pune and Dighi Port, as well as the industrial belt around Mangaon in Raigad district.

At present, the route to Dighi Port passes through Pune–Chandani Chowk–Paud–Tamhini–Mangaon–Dighi. The Centre has already granted national highway status to the Pune–Dighi Port road.

However, the ghat section is steep and marked by sharp curves, increasing travel time and making it difficult for heavy vehicles to pass.

Officials said a wider and safer road is essential, particularly for the smooth movement of goods vehicles bound for Dighi Port.

An improved alignment is expected to reduce travel time between Pune and the Konkan region, benefiting Pune city as well as western Maharashtra. In view of this, NHAI is evaluating multiple alternatives.

One proposal involves developing a new road via Panshet–Mangaon–Dighi Port, bypassing the existing Tamhini stretch. Another option under consideration is widening the current road, easing sharp curves, and constructing a tunnel between Dongarwadi and Tamhini to shorten the distance and improve safety.

NHAI officials confirmed that preliminary data collection and planning for a new alignment are underway, with a focus on reducing the ghat distance and ensuring smoother and safer travel.

Why an alternative is needed

Tamhini Ghat has several sharp bends and receives heavy rainfall, leading to frequent landslides and accidents during the monsoon. On weekends, especially in the rainy season, tourist inflow often results in long traffic queues.

The steep curves increase the risk of accidents involving heavy vehicles, while narrow stretches make it difficult for goods carriers to manoeuvre and overtake, adding to congestion and safety concerns.