Interestingly, while Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated the first phase of the project, the final phase has been inaugurated by CM Fadnavis. Deputy Chief Ministers Eknath Shinde and Ajit Pawar, along with senior ministers and government officials, were present at the event. The highlight of the ceremony included a test drive by the dignitaries on the newly completed stretch — with Eknath Shinde behind the wheel. This sparked political commentary, with some noting that while Fadnavis holds the top post, the "charioteer" of the state appears to be Shinde.
The Samruddhi Mahamarg, also known as the Hindu Hrudaysamrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg, is a transformative project that connects 24 districts across Vidarbha, Marathwada, and North Maharashtra. Promoted as a symbol of growth, this mega infrastructure initiative is a cornerstone of the state's development strategy.
During the event, CM Fadnavis emphasized that the highway is not just a transport corridor, but a lifeline for economic and regional development. "With enhanced connectivity, better logistics, and reduced travel time, the Samruddhi Mahamarg will open new opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment," he said.
Apart from its engineering prowess, the expressway has also been used as a canvas for Maharashtra's cultural identity. Artists have contributed murals and paintings throughout the route, featuring themes such as Warli art, rural life, agriculture, animal husbandry, yoga, and seasonal transformations. These visuals reflect the soul of Maharashtra and enhance the travel experience.
While the Samruddhi Mahamarg has recently been in the spotlight due to a series of accidents, authorities have implemented enhanced safety measures:
Advanced signage, CCTV surveillance, and alarm systems have been installed along the route.
In the newly inaugurated stretch, five massive tunnels have been constructed through the Sahyadri mountain range, making it one of the largest tunnel projects in India (spanning over 10 km in total).
These tunnels are equipped with modern lighting, fire-fighting systems, and an emergency trunk call service for swift accident response.
A new temperature-based sprinkler system has also been introduced, which automatically activates in case of overheating inside tunnels.
Additionally, interconnect passages between tunnels enable quick access for emergency services and passengers in case of blockages or accidents.
The completion of the final phase marks a significant achievement for the Maharashtra Grand Alliance government, which has pushed for rapid progress in infrastructure. With multiple highways and urban development projects underway, today’s inauguration reaffirms the government’s commitment to modernizing the state.
The Samruddhi Mahamarg is now more than just a highway — it's a symbol of aspiration, connectivity, and inclusive development. As Maharashtra races ahead, this expressway stands as a landmark of what well-planned infrastructure can achieve.