India's Widest Road Tunnel on Mumbai–Pune Expressway Sets World Record
Lonavala, 1st May 2026: The tunnel constructed under the Missing Link project on the Yashwantrao Chavan Expressway has been officially recognized as the world’s widest underground road tunnel, marking a significant milestone in India’s infrastructure development.
The Guinness World Records certificate confirming the achievement was presented to Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on the occasion of Maharashtra Day. The tunnel, part of the newly inaugurated Missing Link project, was opened for public use earlier in the day. According to officials, the structure has been certified as the widest underground tunnel in the world, with a recorded width of 22.33 metres.
The certificate was handed over by representatives of Guinness World Records in the presence of Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Sunetra Ajit Pawar, along with senior ministers, Members of Parliament, legislators, and top bureaucrats. Officials from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) and representatives of the construction firm involved in the tunnelling work were also present.
Before the formal presentation, engineers and project officials briefed the Chief Minister and other dignitaries on the technical aspects of the tunnel construction. They highlighted the challenges involved in executing such a large-scale underground structure and the advanced engineering methods adopted during the project.
The recognition adds to the significance of the Missing Link project, which aims to improve connectivity and reduce travel time between Mumbai and Pune while enhancing safety and efficiency on the expressway. Officials said the record-setting tunnel reflects the growing capability of Indian infrastructure projects to meet global engineering standards.
“The Missing Link will be a structural positive for Pune’s real estate market. By cutting travel time and making the Mumbai–Pune corridor smoother and safer, it strengthens Pune’s appeal for both end-users and investors from Mumbai. We expect more Mumbai-based buyers to evaluate Pune seriously, not just as a second-home or investment market, but also as a realistic migration option for better lifestyle, larger homes, and long-term value creation. This improved connectivity will support demand across Pune’s growth corridors and reinforce the city’s position as one of India’s most attractive real estate markets,” said Rohit Gupta, Managing Director, Mantra Group.
