In a landmark move to ease traffic on one of Pune’s busiest stretches, the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has approved a ₹6,000 crore elevated road project from Dehu Road to Narhe along the Mumbai–Bangalore bypass. The long-awaited project aims to tackle growing congestion and accident risks while improving connectivity between Pune, Pimpri Chinchwad and surrounding urbanising suburbs.
Narhe Bottleneck to be Bypassed with ₹6,000 Crore Project
The bypass, originally designed to divert intercity traffic away from Pune’s inner arterial routes, has been increasingly burdened due to rapid development in Baner, Hinjewadi, Pashan, Pimpri Chinchwad and Mulshi. This local traffic pressure has created frequent bottlenecks, with the Narhe stretch identified as a black spot for accidents, especially on the steep descent from the tunnel to Vadgaon Budhruk.
Officials emphasise that the elevated road will provide a sustainable alternative by streamlining vehicular flow and reducing accident hazards. It is also seen as a future-ready investment to support Pune’s transport needs over the next decade. By shifting long-haul freight and passenger traffic to a safer alignment, the project is expected to free up road space and provide relief to daily commuters within the Pune and Pimpri Chinchwad municipal limits.
Pune’s Mobility Upgrade Balances Growth with Climate Commitments
The elevated design promises higher vehicular speeds, fuel savings and reduced travel time for local and intercity travellers. Experts highlight additional benefits of lower emissions from reduced idling, aligning the project with India’s broader climate commitments and advancing low-carbon urban growth.
Urban planners note that the initiative addresses long-standing concerns over poor road geometry near Narhe, where uneven gradients and steep slopes have caused safety risks flagged in audits. The elevated alignment will bypass this vulnerable stretch entirely. While the ₹6,000 crore investment marks a transformative step for Pune’s mobility, experts stress that complementary investments in public transport, last-mile connectivity and non-motorised mobility remain critical for achieving an inclusive and sustainable transport ecosystem.
Summary:
The Union Ministry has approved a ₹6,000 crore elevated road from Dehu Road to Narhe on Pune’s Mumbai–Bangalore bypass to ease congestion and accidents. The project promises faster travel, fuel savings, and lower emissions while bypassing Narhe’s accident-prone stretch, though experts stress complementary investments in public transport and sustainable mobility.
