NHAI’s Double Tunnel Project at Khambatki Set To Transform Mumbai-Pune-Bengaluru Highway Commute
Pune, 24th November 2023: In a significant development, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has embarked on a transformative project to ease the commute between Pune, Satara, Mahabaleshwar, and Bengaluru. The project involves the construction of a double tunnel along the Khambatki Ghat route, aiming to reduce the travel time from the Mumbai-Pune-Bengaluru highway to just ten minutes by June 2024.
Khambataki Ghat, a crucial point for travellers heading to Satara, Mahabaleshwar, Kolhapur, Bengaluru, currently demands a journey of at least 45 minutes, with traffic congestion being a frequent challenge. Witnessing 55 thousand vehicles passing through daily, the existing two-lane tunnel experiences traffic jams, particularly given its one-way direction toward Satara.
Recognizing the need for an efficient solution, the NHAI initiated the double tunnel project at Khambataki Ghat along with an access route. Commencing on February 28, 2018, the 6.46 km project, costing Rs 926 crore, spans from the Satara to Khandala. Each of the three-lane tunnels boasts a width of 16.16 meters and a height of 9.31 meters, ensuring a comprehensive solution to enhance traffic flow.
With a commitment to safety, the project incorporates all necessary facilities to facilitate a secure journey for drivers and passengers. NHAI officials report that 60 per cent of the tunnel and access road project has been completed, signalling substantial progress toward the anticipated June 2024 deadline. Once finished, this initiative is poised to significantly reduce travel time and alleviate congestion on this critical highway route.
