Local communities in Palghar district have stepped forward to demand better compensation for land acquired for the proposed Vadhvan Port and priority employment at the mega-port project. During a recent meeting at the Dahanu sub-divisional office, residents raised concerns over potential livelihood impacts, pressing authorities for immediate action on jobs and fair land value ahead of the technical survey.
The ₹76,200 crore all-weather, deep-draft port was approved by the Union Cabinet in 2024 and will be constructed through Vadhvan Port Project Limited, a joint venture between the Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) and the Maharashtra Maritime Board (MMB), with a 74:26 split. With land acquisition already underway, community unrest has arisen over delayed compensation and fears of job loss. At the meeting, the deputy district collector confirmed that JNPA would prioritise hiring local residents and pledged to relay villagers’ pay and employment concerns to higher authorities. The district administration emphasised its commitment to transparent engagement, ensuring that community voices shape project planning from the outset.
Villagers, who recently protested against the technical survey on the site, highlighted their dependence on the local economy and demanded that compensation reflect market value. They also argued that employment opportunities should not be limited to skilled outsiders but extend to local youth and daily-wage earners. These demands spotlight the challenge of balancing infrastructure development with community rights. The Vadhvan Port, as envisioned, promises to strengthen coastal connectivity in Maharashtra, aiding India’s export-import corridors and boosting regional trade. However, analysts say its success will hinge on equitable inclusion and proper grievance redressal—particularly given the area’s fragile ecosystems and traditional livelihoods.
In response, project authorities stated that compensation packages would follow Maharashtra’s land acquisition norms, including market-linked valuation and allowances for delayed displacement. They also noted that job training and capacity-building programmes are being planned to equip locals with skills in logistics, port operations, and allied services. While the meeting’s assurances represent a promising start, some experts caution that implementation will determine the port’s ability to truly reflect equitable and sustainable development goals. Transparent land deals, timely payments, and robust local hiring schemes will be essential to maintaining public trust and social licence.
As work progresses, both residents and officials agree that balanced growth is critical. The port’s long-term viability depends not only on technical and financial investments, but equally on the well-being and empowerment of its surrounding communities.
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