MSRDC Intensifies Land Acquisition Efforts For Shaktipeeth Expressway, Focuses On Winning Farmers’ Trust Before Surveys

The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is intensifying its efforts to acquire land for the proposed Shaktipeeth Expressway, emphasizing the importance of winning over farmers' trust before conducting joint land measurements. This initiative follows resistance to joint land measurement at certain locations, attributed to misconceptions about the project.

To address these concerns, the corporation has initiated workshops with the district administration and revenue machinery, urging them to engage farmers and explain the acquisition process to alleviate apprehensions.

Dr. Anilkumar Gaikwad, Vice Chairman and Managing Director of MSRDC, emphasized the significance of understanding and addressing farmers' concerns during a land acquisition workshop held at YASHADA in Pune on August 27. He was accompanied by the Pune Divisional Commissioner, Sheetal Ugale, and district collectors from Satara, Kolhapur, Sangli, Solapur, and Sindhudurg.

The workshop aimed to reinforce farmer engagement as a pivotal factor in the acquisition process, with officials advised to maintain regular communication with landowners and clarify the project's requirements.

Hanumant Aragunde, Special Officer on Duty in the Chief Minister's Office, explained the rules governing land acquisition and highlighted the success of similar projects, such as the Samruddhi Expressway and Pune Ring Road, where winning farmers' confidence was crucial. Pune Divisional Commissioner Sheetal Ugale also stressed the need for continuous dialogue between officials and farmers throughout the acquisition process.

Given that nearly half of the land required for the 856.57 km expressway falls within Sangli, Satara, Solapur, and Kolhapur districts, coordinated efforts between the MSRDC and district administration are deemed essential for completing joint measurements and advancing the acquisition process.