Maharashtra’s much-anticipated Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway, officially called the Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg, is set for its grand inauguration in February 2025. This 701-km six-lane marvel will slash travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur from a gruelling 16 hours to a breezy 8 hours, revolutionising connectivity in the state.

Currently, 625 kilometers of the expressway—from Nagpur to Igatpuri in Nashik—are operational, while the final stretch connecting to Mumbai is ready for unveiling.

• Cost and Scope:

  - Developed at a cost of ₹67,000 crore, the expressway is set to transform Maharashtra's socio-economic landscape, creating 18 smart towns tailored to regional industries and benefiting 24 districts directly or indirectly.

• Safety and Technology:

- Features an Intelligent Traffic Management System (ITMS) and emergency medical services.

- Includes a “zero fatality corridor” to reduce accidents.

- An 8-kilometer twin tunnel near Kasara uses advanced German engineering for smooth and safe passage.

• Environmental Considerations:

- Over 80 structures built to facilitate wildlife crossings, ensuring a balance between development and nature.

• Enhanced Connectivity:

- Improved access to Navi Mumbai International Airport, reducing travel time from Pune to the airport to just 2.5 hours.

• Economic Impact:

- 1.52 crore vehicles have already utilised the expressway's operational sections, generating ₹1,100 crore in toll revenue over two years.