The Mumbai-Pune Expressway Missing Link project, undertaken by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation, has recorded a cost escalation of INR 485 crore, taking the total project cost from INR 6,695 crore to INR 7,180 crore.
Officials have attributed the increase to delays in execution and other associated factors. The project, which involves complex engineering work through the Lonavala-Khandala ghat section, includes tunnels, viaducts and a cable-stayed bridge.
Challenging terrain conditions, including unstable rock formations and landslide-prone areas, slowed construction progress. In addition, pandemic-related disruptions, changes in design, and enhanced safety measures contributed to the rise in overall expenditure.
The 13.3-km missing link is aimed at bypassing the existing accident-prone ghat stretch, improving connectivity between Mumbai and Pune.
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