Speed Limit on Mumbai-Pune Expressway’s Ghat Section Likely to be Revised

The Maharashtra State Transport Department is actively considering an increase in the speed limit for heavy vehicles on the Bhor Ghat section of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway. Currently, the speed limit for heavy vehicles is set at 40 km/h; however, authorities are evaluating the possibility of raising it to 50 km/h. This proposal comes after truck and bus drivers voiced concerns, citing the current speed restriction as impractical and unscientific. The ghat section, a 10-kilometer stretch between Lonavala and Khalapur, is known for its challenging terrain. Officials are in discussions, with a decision anticipated soon. While the speed limit for cars remains unchanged at 60 km/h on this stretch, the contrast with the higher speed limits permitted elsewhere on the expressway (100 km/h for small vehicles and 80 km/h for heavy vehicles) is a point of concern. The transport industry highlights that the need to maintain a low speed results in frequent braking, which can lead to overheating and brake failures, thus increasing the risk of accidents. The implementation of the ITMS has also led to a sharp increase in e-challans. Joint inspections involving various stakeholders have been conducted. Drivers have voiced concerns about inadequate warning signs in the ghat section. The Mumbai-Pune Expressway, operational since 2002, has seen a concerning number of accidents, particularly in the Bhor Ghat area.