Mumbai Nagpur Expressway (Samruddhi Mahamarg): Route, Opening Date, Toll and More

By LODHA

Mumbai Nagpur Expressway is one of the most ambitious infrastructure projects in India, connecting the two major cities of Mumbai and Nagpur with a world-class, signal-free, and fully access-controlled expressway. The project, which is expected to be completed by 2024, aims to reduce the travel time between Mumbai and Nagpur from 16 hours to just 8 hours, providing a much-needed boost to trade, commerce and tourism in the region.

Let's take a closer look at the Mumbai Nagpur Expressway, exploring its benefits, technical details, Samruddhi Mahamarg route map, current status, toll plaza locations, safety measures and future plans.

Introduction To Mumbai Nagpur Expressway

What is Mumbai Nagpur Expressway?

Mumbai Nagpur Expressway, also known as Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg, is a proposed 701-kilometre-long expressway connecting two major cities in the state of Maharashtra, India. The construction of the expressway began in 2018 and is expected to be completed by 2022.

History and Purpose of Building the Expressway

The idea of the Mumbai Nagpur Expressway was first proposed in 2015 by the then Chief Minister of Maharashtra, Devendra Fadnavis. The aim was to create a high-speed, six-lane expressway that would connect Mumbai, the financial capital of India, with Nagpur, a major city in eastern Maharashtra.

The expressway was envisioned as a way to boost trade and commerce, enhance connectivity and accessibility and reduce travel time and cost between the two cities. It is also expected to have a positive impact on real estate and tourism in the areas it passes through.

Benefits And Significance Of Mumbai Nagpur Expressway

Reduced Travel Time and Cost

Mumbai Nagpur Expressway is expected to significantly reduce travel time and cost between Mumbai and Nagpur. The current travel time between the two cities by road is around 16 hours, but with the expressway, it will be reduced to just 8 hours. This will not only save time but also reduce fuel costs.

Boost to Trade and Commerce 

The expressway will provide seamless connectivity for goods and services between Mumbai and Nagpur, which in turn is expected to boost trade and commerce in the region. It will also provide better access to ports and airports, making it easier for businesses to import and export goods.

Enhanced Connectivity and Accessibility 

Mumbai Nagpur Expressway will enhance connectivity and accessibility to the areas it passes through, which are currently underdeveloped. It will provide better access to healthcare, education, and other basic amenities, thereby improving the quality of life in these areas.

Impact on Real Estate and Tourism 

The expressway is expected to have a positive impact on real estate and tourism in the areas it passes through. The improved connectivity and accessibility will make these areas more attractive to investors and tourists, leading to an increase in property prices and tourism revenue.

See also: Upcoming Infrastructures in Thane Improving Connectivity

Technical Details And Construction Process of the Samruddhi Mahamarg

Length and Width of the Expressway

Mumbai Nagpur Expressway will be a 701-kilometre-long, six-lane expressway with a design speed of 120 km/h. It will be one of the longest expressways in India and is expected to handle a traffic volume of around 75,000 vehicles per day.

Construction Timeline and Techniques

The construction of the Mumbai Nagpur Expressway began in 2018 and is expected to be completed by 2022. The expressway is being built using advanced construction techniques such as pre-cast concrete technology, which is faster and more efficient than traditional construction methods.

Environmental Impact and Mitigation Measures

The construction of the Mumbai Nagpur Expressway has raised concerns about its potential impact on the environment. To mitigate these concerns, the project includes measures such as afforestation, soil conservation and rainwater harvesting. The project also includes the construction of wildlife underpasses to minimize the impact on wildlife.

Samruddhi Mahamarg Route Map Thane And Major Cities Covered

Starting and Ending Points

Mumbai Nagpur Expressway will start from the outskirts of Mumbai and end at Nagpur. The Samruddhi Mahamarg Mumbai starting point is on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway and the ending point is at Outer Ring Road in Nagpur.

Cities and Towns along the Route

The expressway will pass through several major cities and towns including Pune, Ahmednagar, Aurangabad, Jalna, Wardha and Butibori. It will also pass through several smaller towns and villages in Maharashtra.

Attractions and Landmarks on the Way

Mumbai Nagpur Expressway will pass through several popular tourist destinations and landmarks including Lonavala, Khandala and Bhimashankar Wildlife Sanctuary. It will also pass through several historical sites such as the Ajanta and Ellora Caves as well as the Daulatabad Fort.

Current Status Of Samruddhi Mahamarg

Phase 1

In December 2022, Prime Minister - Shri Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the expressway, allowing access to the 520-km stretch between Nagpur and the temple town of Shirdi in Ahmednagar district to the public

Phase 2

The Eknath Shinde-led government is aiming to complete the Mumbai Nagpur expressway by the end of 2023.

Toll Plaza Locations and Charges

The Samruddhi Mahamarg route has a total of 18 toll plazas, located at regular intervals to ensure smooth flow of traffic.

Samruddhi Mahamarg Toll Plaza List:

1. Khalapur Interchange
2. Kiwale Interchange
3. Urse Interchange
4. Talegaon Interchange
5. Chakan Interchange
6. Khamgaon Toll Plaza
7. Pimpalgaon Baswant Toll Plaza
8. Kharwandi Toll Plaza
9. Borkhedi Toll Plaza
10. Butibori Toll Plaza
11. Ichalkaranji Toll Plaza
12. Kini Toll Plaza
13. Warora Toll Plaza
14. Wadki Toll Plaza
15. Bhojapur Toll Plaza
16. Khedkut Canal Toll Plaza
17. Khardi Toll Plaza
18. Veer Tapi Toll Plaza

Toll Charges for Different Types of Vehicles on the Samruddhi Mahamarg

The toll charges for different types of vehicles are as follows:

Payment Options and Electronic Toll Collection

You can pay the toll charges using cash, credit/debit cards, or through electronic toll collection (ETC) methods such as FASTag, which ensures hassle-free and quick passage through the toll plazas.

Safety Measures and Road Rules

The Samruddhi Expressway is designed to ensure the safety of commuters and follows strict rules and regulations to maintain smooth traffic flow.

Speed Limits and Lane Discipline

The expressway has designated speed limits, which vary depending on the type of vehicle. The speed limit for cars is 120 kmph and 80 kmph for heavy vehicles, with strict enforcement through speed cameras. It's important to maintain lane discipline and avoid sudden lane changes, which can result in accidents.

Emergency Services and Facilities

The Samruddhi Mahamarg expressway has multiple emergency services, including ambulance services and tow trucks, stationed at regular intervals. There are also rest stops and food courts for commuters to take a break and refresh themselves.

Traffic Rules and Regulations

Following traffic rules and regulations is essential for safe and smooth travel on the expressway. Overtaking from the left, driving under the influence of alcohol and using mobile phones while driving are strictly prohibited and can lead to hefty fines and penalties.

Future Plans And Projects Related To The Expressway

The Mumbai Nagpur Expressway aims to boost the growth and development of the surrounding regions, and several projects are planned to further enhance its connectivity and facilities.

Upgrades and Expansion Plans 

There are plans to upgrade the expressway to six lanes from the current four lanes to accommodate the increasing traffic. Additionally, the Mumbai Nagpur Super Communication Expressway, a proposed new expressway, will connect with the Mumbai Nagpur Expressway, further enhancing its connectivity.

Integration with Other Transportation Modes 

To provide seamless connectivity, plans are underway to integrate the expressway with other transportation modes such as railways and airports. This will provide more options for commuters to travel to their destinations.

Impact on the Development of Surrounding Areas

The expressway is expected to fuel the growth and development of the surrounding regions by providing better connectivity and access to markets. This, in turn, will create job opportunities and boost the overall economy of the region. In conclusion, the Mumbai Nagpur Expressway is set to revolutionize how people travel between Mumbai and Nagpur, offering a faster, safer and more convenient mode of transportation. With its numerous benefits, impressive technical details and future plans, the Mumbai Nagpur Expressway is one of India's most significant infrastructure projects. As India continues to invest in its transportation infrastructure, the Mumbai Nagpur Expressway serves as a shining example of the nation's progress towards a brighter future.

The New Gateway to Mumbai - Lodha Upper Thane

Located just a few minutes from the starting point of the Mumbai-Nagpur highway, Lodha Upper Thane is a 200+ acre integrated township with more than 80% of the development devoted to open spaces. It has been designed by visionary architect Hafeez Contractor and landscaped by renowned design firm, Prabhakar B. Bhagwat & Associates. It's an integrated 'walk-to-everything' development, hence, everything is just a 2/5/10 minute walk away. It holds the promise of an impeccably planned, efficient and culturally vibrant township. Its residents are in close proximity to the hotspots of Thane like popular hyper malls including Viviana and Korum, world-class schools like Singhania and Lodha World School and hospitals like Vedant and Jupiter. The township is also close to major business districts that are home to IT giants like TCS and Deloitte.

Due to its proximity to other parts of Mumbai and the starting point of the Samruddhi Mahamarg - Lodha Upper Thane becomes the new Gateway to Mumbai.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the current status of Samruddhi Mahamarg?

The Samruddhi Mahamarg is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by 2024.

2. Which cities are connected by Samruddhi Mahamarg?

The Samruddhi Mahamarg will pass through major cities like Pune, Ahmednagar, Aurangabad, Jalna, Wardha, Butibori and several smaller villages in Maharashtra.

3. How much time it takes from Nagpur to Mumbai via Samruddhi Mahamarg?

Once completed, the Samruddhi Mahamarg is expected to reduce the travel time between Nagpur and Mumbai from 16 hours to 8 hours.

4. What is the distance of the Nagpur Mumbai Expressway?

The total length of the Nagpur Mumbai Expressway, also known as the Samruddhi Mahamarg, is approximately 701 kilometres.

5. Is Nagpur Mumbai Expressway open?

Yes, the Nagpur-Mumbai highway is being constructed in phases. While the phase connecting Nagpur to Shirdi is functional, the phase between Shirdi to Mumbai will be functional from 2024

6. What is the speed limit of the Mumbai Nagpur Expressway?

The speed limit for cars is 120 kmph and 80 kmph for heavy vehicles.

7. What are the toll charges for Samruddhi Highway?

The toll charges vary according to the type of vehicle. Please refer to the Toll Charges for Different Types of Vehicles section for more details.