Maharashtra’s Vadhavan Port to Be Linked Directly to Samruddhi Expressway, Fast-Tracking State’s Trade Growth
In a major boost to Maharashtra’s infrastructure and economic development, the state government has approved the construction of a 104.89-km high-speed freight corridor connecting the upcoming Vadhavan Port in Palghar district with the Hindu Hriday Samrat Balasaheb Thackeray Maharashtra Samruddhi Mahamarg at Bharvir in Nashik district.
The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Tuesday. The strategic project is expected to significantly reduce the travel distance and time between the port and the rest of the state, especially benefiting regions like Vidarbha, Marathwada, and North Maharashtra.
To be executed by the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), the corridor will receive ₹1,500 crore in financial support from the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO). The total estimated cost of the project is ₹2,528.90 crore, and it is expected to be completed within the next three years.
Once operational, the Vadhavan Port—being developed into a major transshipment hub by Vadhavan Port Project Limited—will handle large volumes of international cargo. The new corridor will provide a direct, high-speed route to the Samruddhi Expressway, allowing faster and more cost-effective movement of goods across Maharashtra and beyond.
Currently, the journey from Vadhavan Port to the expressway requires a 183.48 km trip via the Vadodara-Mumbai Expressway. The new route will reduce this to 104.89 km—cutting 78.58 km and slashing travel time from 4–5 hours to just 1–1.5 hours.
The corridor will traverse key areas such as Dahanu, Vikramgad, Jawhar, and Mokhada in Palghar district, as well as Trimbakeshwar and Igatpuri in Nashik district. Officials believe this enhanced connectivity will support local enterprises including MSMEs, agricultural ventures, IT firms, and educational institutions.
The project is also expected to generate employment opportunities and widen market access for local communities. According to state government sources, plans for a new airport in Palghar district are also being considered to further strengthen the region’s connectivity. A feasibility report for the same has already been submitted.
Officials say the integrated development of port and highway infrastructure marks a bold step toward building a future-ready Maharashtra.
