Maharashtra: The much-awaited 701 km long Mumbai-Nagpur Expressway, named the ‘Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samriddhi Mahamarg,’ is set to open in February. This new expressway is expected to drastically reduce the travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur, cutting it from 16 hours to just 8 hours.
Previously, the expressway was operational from Nagpur to Ighatpuri near Nashik, and now, with the final phase complete, the entire corridor will be extended to Mumbai. This ambitious project, regarded as a dream initiative by Maharashtra's Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, will be inaugurated next month.
The expressway is expected to be a game-changer for the region, aimed at boosting socio-economic development, especially in the Vidarbha region of Maharashtra. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has also supported this transformative project, which will greatly improve connectivity and drive economic growth.
Key Contributions to the Project's Success
Dr. Anilkumar Gaikwad, a well-known civil engineer, has played a crucial role in the project's successful completion. His leadership and experience in managing large-scale infrastructure projects have been key to delivering this expressway on schedule. Having served as the Chief Engineer at Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), Dr. Gaikwad was promoted to Vice Chairman and Managing Director due to his exceptional work on the project.
Environmental and Future Planning Considerations
The expressway has already made significant progress with the completion of several phases. In December 2022 and March 2023, parts of the highway were partially opened. The final segment is now ready, with full inauguration expected soon.
Environmental sustainability has been a key focus, with more than 80 structures built to ensure the safety of wildlife. Additionally, 18 smart towns are planned along the highway, designed to foster industry based on local needs and characteristics. This forward-thinking planning aims to create a positive impact on the local economy and environment.
Economic Impact of the Project
The expressway, built at a cost of Rs 67,000 crore, will directly connect 10 districts and provide indirect connectivity to 14 more. This is expected to significantly improve transportation, reduce fuel consumption, and lower industrial freight costs.
In its first two years of operation, the highway has already seen 1.52 crore vehicles, resulting in toll collections of Rs 1,100 crore. The expressway is poised to be a major contributor to Maharashtra’s economic growth and connectivity.
