Highway Police officials imposed hefty fines on the newly opened Missing Link section of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway after vehicles, mostly cars, stopped for selfies, photographs and videos along the high-speed corridor cable bridge, which was inaugurated by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister on Friday, May 1.
According to Maharashtra Highway Police, around 50 vehicles have already been penalised for illegal parking and stopping and other traffic violations on the expressway. Assistant Police Inspector Swapnil Patil of the Maharashtra Highway Police said authorities are adopting a zero-tolerance approach towards violations on the new route, according to Punekar News.
“We are taking strict action against vehicles violating no-parking rules and other safety regulations. This is a high-speed corridor, and any unauthorised stopping can lead to serious accidents,” he said.
Officials said commuters were seen stopping near the cable-stayed bridge and tunnels to take selfies, photographs and record reels, despite repeated warnings against halting on the expressway.
Restricted Vehicle Access
Only light motor vehicles, passenger cars and buses are currently permitted on the route. Heavy vehicles such as trucks and container carriers have been banned from using the stretch until October 31, 2026.
Police said some heavy vehicles were still found entering the restricted corridor, and teams are actively intercepting violators. Vehicles carrying flammable, explosive or hazardous materials are strictly prohibited from using the route.
Speed Limits
The following speed limits have been enforced:
Light motor vehicles: 100 kmph.
Buses and passenger vehicles: 80 kmph.
Authorities said the entire stretch, including both tunnels and bridges, is under round-the-clock CCTV surveillance.
Heavy Fines for Stopping Vehicles
Stopping or parking anywhere on the Missing Link section, particularly inside tunnels or on bridges, has been prohibited due to safety concerns. Officials warned that motorists found stopping for selfies, photography or video recording would face heavy fines, towing charges and further legal action under traffic regulations.
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has appealed to drivers and passengers to avoid risky behaviour and comply with safety rules while travelling on the route.
Meanwhile, the Missing Link project is expected to reduce traffic congestion on the old Bhor Ghat section of the Mumbai-Pune Expressway by nearly 70%. Authorities, however, stressed that the success of the project would depend on strict adherence to traffic regulations and responsible driving behaviour by commuters.