Mumbai-Pune Expressway Missing Link: Police Crack Down On Selfie Stops, Issue Fines
Police penalise motorists halting for selfies on expressway stretch, citing high-speed traffic risks and safety concerns.
The Maharashtra Highway Police have begun taking action against motorists halting their vehicles on the newly opened ‘missing link’ stretch of the Mumbai–Pune Expressway to take selfies and photographs, officials said on Sunday. Authorities have imposed a strict ban on stopping along the route for such activities, warning that violators may face fines and even criminal charges.
The 13.3-kilometre-long missing link, inaugurated on May 1 by Devendra Fadnavis, is a major infrastructure upgrade designed to bypass a challenging section of the Bhor Ghat. The new stretch reduces travel time between Mumbai and Pune by approximately 25 to 30 minutes, significantly improving connectivity between Maharashtra’s two largest cities.
Developed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation, the project has been widely described as an engineering milestone. It features two tunnels, two viaducts, and a cable-stayed bridge over the scenic Tiger Valley, offering panoramic views of the Western Ghats. The picturesque setting has attracted motorists who stop to capture photos, despite the high-speed nature of the corridor.
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Police officials emphasized that such behavior poses a serious safety hazard. Vehicles on the expressway typically travel at speeds between 100 and 120 km/h, and sudden halts can lead to dangerous situations, including rear-end collisions. “Abrupt stopping in the middle of the road could lead to accidents,” an official noted, highlighting the risks involved.
To address the issue, highway police have increased monitoring and enforcement along the route. Motorists found violating the ban may not only be fined but could also face legal action under relevant traffic and safety laws. Authorities have urged travelers to prioritize safety over recreational activities while using the expressway.
Officials also noted that the new stretch has already had a positive impact on traffic conditions. Previously, control rooms received 10 to 15 daily calls related to accidents or congestion on the older route. Since the missing link became operational, no such calls have been reported, indicating smoother and safer traffic flow along the corridor.
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