Daijiworld Media Network - Mumbai

Mumbai, Dec 18: Motorists enduring prolonged traffic snarls on the old Mumbai–Nashik Highway between Thane and Vadpe can look forward to much-needed relief, as the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has accelerated work on the crucial road-widening project.

According to MSRDC officials, more than 75 per cent of the eight-laning work on the Thane–Vadpe stretch has already been completed, and efforts are underway to fast-track the remaining portion. The project is expected to be fully completed by March 2026.

“Nearly 75 per cent of the eight-laning work on the Thane–Vadpe stretch of the Mumbai–Nashik Highway is complete. Once finished, the upgraded road will significantly ease traffic congestion and reduce inconvenience for motorists travelling towards the Samruddhi Mahamarg near Amane,” an MSRDC official said.

Currently, vehicles travelling from Thane towards the starting point of the Samruddhi Highway at Amane are forced to use the old Mumbai–Nashik Highway. Due to the ongoing widening work and construction of bridges over the creek, traffic congestion has become a daily ordeal, particularly during peak hours. Commuters often take anywhere between 90 and 120 minutes to cover the 23-km stretch between Thane and Vadpe.

Once the project is completed, the upgraded highway is expected to drastically improve traffic flow and reduce travel time to around 30–40 minutes, offering a smoother and hassle-free driving experience on this vital route.

Motorists have expressed cautious optimism over the progress. Raj Pawar, a regular commuter, said the persistent congestion has forced many to seek alternatives. “Because of the eight-laning work, it takes nearly two hours to cover just 23 km during peak hours. I now prefer travelling from Nashik to Mumbai by long-distance train. We hope the work is completed soon so we can use the Samruddhi Highway up to Amane and then the Mumbai–Nashik Highway to reach Thane smoothly,” he said.

Another motorist, Bhima J, pointed out that commuters have been suffering for over two years due to the ongoing project. “At times, it takes more than 90 minutes and even up to two hours to cover a stretch that should ideally take less than 45 minutes. We hope the authorities speed up the work while ensuring quality,” he said.

With the majority of work already completed, commuters are hopeful that the long-standing traffic woes on the Thane–Vadpe stretch will soon be a thing of the past.