Traffic on the Pune-Mumbai Connecting Link Road has resumed after the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) completed restoration and safety checks following a landslide triggered by heavy monsoon rain.

The route, which was affected by debris and adverse weather conditions, was reopened late on Monday night after officials confirmed it was safe for commuters.

MSRDC completes restoration work

According to the MSRDC, its teams continued restoration work despite persistent rainfall, strong winds and poor visibility. The affected section was cleared of landslide debris, and the road surface was cleaned using specialised machinery to make it safe for traffic movement.

A landslide on the Missing Link section of the Mumbai–Pune Expressway near the Khandala Exit
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Restoration work underway following a landslide on the Missing Link section of the Mumbai–Pune Expressway near the Khandala Exit | ANI

As part of the safety exercise, technical experts inspected Tunnel 2 and the adjoining hillside to assess whether any unstable material remained that could pose a risk to motorists.

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The agency also attempted drone-based inspections. However, heavy rain, dense fog and strong winds limited aerial surveys during the operation.

Traffic restored after safety assessment

The MSRDC said vehicular movement was allowed only after all necessary technical and safety evaluations had been completed.

“Traffic was restored only after the required safety and technical assessments were completed,” the corporation said, while advising commuters to avoid non-essential travel during the ongoing spell of heavy rain. It also urged motorists to follow official traffic advisories issued by the authorities.

The update was shared by the MSRDC on X along with a 37-second video showing the tunnel stretch after restoration work. The footage showed the carriageway illuminated by overhead lights, with water visible on the road surface.

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CMO Maharashtra confirms reopening

The Chief Minister’s Office (CMO) Maharashtra later reposted the update, confirming that traffic had resumed on the connecting link.

“Government is trying its best,” the post read, adding, “Stay safe everyone!”

Heavy monsoon continues to affect Maharashtra

The restoration comes as several parts of Maharashtra continue to witness intense monsoon activity. Heavy rainfall over the past few days has disrupted both road and rail connectivity in Mumbai, the Mumbai Metropolitan Region and nearby areas, leading authorities to issue travel advisories and closely monitor weather-related risks.

Vehicles wade through a waterlogged road at Andheri West, Mumbai
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Vehicles wade through a waterlogged road at Andheri West, Mumbai | ANI

FAQs:

Is the Mumbai-Pune Expressway open now?

Yes, traffic has resumed after MSRDC cleared landslide debris and completed all necessary safety inspections.

Why was the Mumbai-Pune Expressway closed?

The connecting link was temporarily shut after a landslide caused by heavy monsoon rains blocked the route and required safety checks.