The final phase of the transformative Hindu Hrudaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg expressway is now complete, marking a significant milestone in the development of Maharashtra's infrastructure.
Spanning 701 kilometers, this ambitious project is already operational between Nagpur and Igatpuri, covering 625 kilometers, and is set to extend to Mumbai with the completion of the last 76-kilometer stretch.
The final phase is expected to be officially inaugurated next month.
Once fully operational, the Samruddhi Mahamarg will cut travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur in half—from 16 hours to just 8 hours—offering a transformative impact on the state’s economic and social fabric.
This groundbreaking initiative, spearheaded by Prime Minister Modi, is designed to catalyze economic growth and regional development in Maharashtra.
Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has been instrumental in driving the project forward, working closely with experts, including Dr. Anilkumar Baliram Gaikwad, an acclaimed civil engineer, who was appointed Managing Director of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC).
Dr. Gaikwad, renowned for his expertise in large-scale projects with stringent deadlines, has been a key player in the success of the Samruddhi Mahamarg. His leadership journey within MSRDC, from Chief Engineer to Vice Chairman and Managing Director, has been pivotal to the project's realization.
Highlights of the Samruddhi Mahamarg
1. State-of-the-Art Communication Corridor
This six-lane, 701-kilometer expressway connects Nagpur to Mumbai, designed to support speeds of up to 150 km/h. It features 65 flyovers, 24 interchanges, six tunnels, and numerous underpasses for both vehicles and pedestrians.
2. Advanced Safety Measures
A standout feature is the 8-kilometer twin tunnel near Kasara, built with German technology and equipped with a sophisticated fire safety system, including fire sensors, sprinklers, and a ventilation system featuring high-speed jet fans.
3. Wildlife Preservation
To ensure the safety of wildlife, over 80 dedicated structures have been incorporated, allowing animals to cross the expressway safely.
4. Enhanced Infrastructure and Emergency Services
The project includes 30 fuel stations along the route and 21 ambulances with quick-response vehicles for emergencies.
5. Economic Development Catalyst
Connecting 10 districts directly and benefiting 14 more, the expressway is expected to drive social and economic growth. It will also help create 18 smart towns, boosting industrial development aligned with regional strengths.
6. Environmental and Economic Benefits
By reducing travel time, fuel consumption, and transportation costs for industries, the Samruddhi Mahamarg will help curb urban migration, create jobs, and stimulate overall economic progress.
Financial Impact and Operational Success
With an estimated investment of ₹67,000 crore, the Samruddhi Mahamarg is poised to become an economic lifeline for Maharashtra. In just two years, it has already witnessed 1.52 crore vehicles using the expressway, generating ₹1,100 crore in toll revenue.
This flagship project, backed by both the central and Maharashtra governments, is on track to bring substantial benefits to the state’s economy and its citizens. As it is fully operational in the coming months, it promises to enhance connectivity and foster economic growth for years to come.
