The Maharashtra government has sanctioned a substantial ₹20,787 crore for the development of the Shaktipeeth Expressway, a monumental infrastructure project aimed at enhancing connectivity between Nagpur and Goa. Spanning approximately 802 kilometres, this expressway is poised to significantly reduce travel time between the two cities, fostering economic growth and promoting tourism.
The Shaktipeeth Expressway will traverse 12 districts, including Wardha, Yavatmal, Hingoli, Nanded, Parbhani, Beed, Latur, Dharashiv, Solapur, Sangli, Kolhapur, and Sindhudurg. The route is strategically designed to connect key pilgrimage sites such as Mahur, Tuljapur, Kolhapur, and Pandharpur, as well as historical locations like Ambajogai, Aundha Nagnath, Parli Vaijnath, Karanja-Lad, Akkalkot, Audumber, and Narsobachi Wadi. This alignment aims to bolster religious tourism and stimulate regional development. The project necessitates the acquisition of approximately 7,500 hectares of land, with the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (HUDCO) providing a loan of ₹12,000 crore to facilitate this process.
While the expressway is expected to enhance trade and tourism, it has also raised concerns among local farmers regarding land acquisition and compensation. Protests have been reported in various districts, with farmers seeking fair compensation and expressing apprehensions about the project’s impact on their livelihoods. Environmental experts have highlighted the potential ecological implications of the expressway, including deforestation and disruption of local ecosystems. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is undertaking environmental assessments and is committed to implementing measures to mitigate adverse effects. These include afforestation initiatives and wildlife corridors to preserve biodiversity.
The Shaktipeeth Expressway has become a focal point in Maharashtra’s political landscape. While the project has garnered support for its potential to drive economic growth, it has also faced opposition from various political factions and community groups. The government has pledged to engage with stakeholders to address concerns and ensure that the benefits of the project are equitably distributed. The Shaktipeeth Expressway represents a significant stride towards modernizing Maharashtra’s infrastructure and promoting regional development. As the project progresses, it will be essential to balance economic objectives with social and environmental considerations to ensure sustainable and inclusive growth.
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Maharashtra Shaktipeeth Expressway Enhances Connectivity
