Work on the new 6-lane tunnel at Khambatki Ghat on Pune-Satara highway (NH-4) is in full swing and the project is expected to be completed by March 2023, Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari said in a series of tweets on Wednesday.
The new tunnel will remove the deadly 'S' curve on Satara-Pune highway which would lead to a drastic reduction in the risk of accidents. The spot has been a killer stretch where most accidents take place. The total cost for the 6.43 km long tunnel project that will result in a straight road is approximately Rs 926 crore. The project comprises a twin tunnel with 3 lanes each.
Mr Gadkari said the tunnel is going to enhance connectivity and most importantly, provide direct benefits to the commuters through time and cost savings.
He said the average travel time at Pune-Satara and Satara – Pune stretch through Khambataki Ghat is 45 minutes and 10-15 minutes respectively. With the completion of this tunnel, the average travel time will be reduced to 5-10 minutes.
The minister said, “Today, our country is witnessing unprecedented infrastructural transformation under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and unfolding prosperity through connectivity. New India demands world class infrastructure and the government is working hard to provide it.”
