Pune-Nashik Highway Project: Route Map, Latest Progress, and Real Estate Growth
The Pune–Nashik Highway, also known as the Pune-Nashik Industrial Expressway, is a transformative infrastructure project aimed at connecting the two major economic hubs of Maharashtra—Pune and Nashik. Designed to boost trade, logistics efficiency, and regional development, this highway is a vital component of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC). With significant improvements in accessibility, the highway is also sparking a wave of real estate and commercial development along its route.
Latest Updates on the Pune-Nashik Highway
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) re-initiated the land acquisition process in March 2025 by approving 1,545 hectares. While progress has resumed, challenges persist. Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC) still awaits Rs 262 crore from the state government to acquire land within its limits. Landowners opting for cash compensation instead of FSI or TDRs have also contributed to delays. Nonetheless, the project continues to move forward due to its strategic value to national logistics.
Key Project Details
Total Length: 213 kilometers
Cost Estimate: Approximately Rs 7,827 crore
Lanes: Four-lane expressway with scope for future expansion
Travel Time Reduction: Up to 50% savings
Construction Status: Multi-phase execution underway
Route Breakdown
The highway spans 213 kilometers and is divided into three sections:
1. Chimbali to Shirdi (135 km): Starts near Pune and connects to Surat-Chennai Expressway.
2. Shirdi to Nashik-Niphad (60 km): Runs through Ahmednagar district.
3. Nashik-Niphad to Nashik: Upgrades existing state highway.
It will pass through key towns like Khed, Shirur, Ambegaon, Junnar, and Sangamner—covering both industrial and agricultural belts. This alignment was chosen to stimulate regional growth and provide an alternate freight route.
Speed Limits and Enforcement
Cars/Light Vehicles: Max 100 km/h on straight roads, 60 km/h on curves
Heavy Vehicles: Max 80 km/h on straights, 60 km/h on curves
Safety enforcement includes:
Speed-monitoring systems
SOS boxes every 2 km
Periodic police patrolling
These measures aim to minimise accidents and encourage disciplined driving.
Commuter Facilities
To ensure commuter comfort, the highway will feature:
Rest Areas: Food plazas, seating, hygienic restrooms
Fuel & EV Stations: Including AC/DC charging for EVs
Surveillance: CCTV and emergency response teams
Facilities like Daulat Refreshment at Shrigonda will also offer EV services, reflecting modern infrastructure priorities.
Safety First
Safety provisions go beyond speed limits:
SOS communication systems
Prominent helpline displays
Dedicated emergency response teams
The project ensures immediate assistance in emergencies, enhancing the safety of long-distance travel.
Real Estate Impact
Key Growth Zones
Chakan
Khed
Manchar
Sinnar
These towns are witnessing a surge in housing and commercial projects due to improved accessibility. Real estate prices have appreciated by **20–40%** in select pockets.
Drivers of Demand:
Proximity to industrial zones (Chakan MIDC, Sinnar MIDC)
Growth in logistics and warehousing
Plotted developments and mid-income housing schemes
Upcoming infrastructure like the Pune–Nashik Semi-High-Speed Rail will further amplify demand.
Logistics & Economic Benefits
The highway enhances freight movement across:
Pune industrial belt
Ahmednagar logistics nodes
Nashik vineyards and manufacturing hubs
Reduced travel time will directly boost trade and improve transportation for goods moving from Maharashtra's interior to metro cities.
Environmental and Social Impact
Reduced Carbon Emissions: Shorter travel times mean less fuel consumption
Tourism Boost: Easier access to Shirdi and other destinations
Job Creation: Construction and real estate projects bring employment opportunities
Conclusion
The Pune-Nashik Highway is more than just a road—it's an economic corridor shaping Maharashtra's future. With real estate appreciation, logistics expansion, and commuter convenience, the expressway is a cornerstone for sustainable development. As execution accelerates and financial roadblocks clear, the project promises to be a game-changer for regional growth, connecting opportunity with infrastructure.
Investors, developers, and end-users would do well to watch this corridor—it's not just a new highway, it's a new era for Maharashtra's urban and industrial landscape.
Comments