Commuter Fined ₹500 for Stopping on Mumbai-Pune Missing Link Bridge

Mumbai: Videos showing commuters violating safety norms on the newly inaugurated Mumbai-Pune 'Missing Link' stretch have gone viral, leading to a social media user being fined ₹500 by the Maharashtra Traffic Police. The penalty came after several videos on social media showed people stopping their vehicles on the cable-stayed bridge to take pictures, despite the stretch having a speed limit of 80–100 kmph. The bridge rises about 182 meters above Tiger Valley, making it a visually striking landmark.

The post regarding the fine was shared by an Instagram user with the username 'mileswithgaurav.' In the video, he advised other commuters not to stop on the bridge while passing through the Missing Link. He mentioned that they were influenced by social media reels and briefly stopped at the location. He also shared the image of an e-challan showing a fine of ₹500 issued by the Maharashtra Traffic Police.

He said, 'If you are passing through the missing link, please don't stop on the cable-stayed bridge. We requested the police, but they issued a chalan. Please mat rukiye.'

Earlier, the reckless behavior of people stopping on the link was widely criticized. Users warned that halting poses serious risks to motorists and called for strict enforcement, including fines and CCTV surveillance. Many also slammed the lack of civic sense and discipline among commuters.

Meanwhile, the inauguration and stone plaque unveiling of the 'Missing Link' Project under the capacity expansion of Yashwantrao Chavan Mumbai–Pune Expressway took place on May 1, the eve of Maharashtra Day. The event was attended by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, and Deputy Chief Minister Sunetra Ajit Pawar.

The 'Missing Link' project is a significant infrastructure upgrade for Maharashtra, aimed at enhancing connectivity between Mumbai and Pune, two of the state's key economic hubs. It has been built to reduce travel time on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway by offering commuters a faster and straighter route while reducing dependence on the older ghat section. This project is expected to boost economic activities and improve the quality of life for residents and travelers alike.