Maharashtra Cabinet Approves the 802 km Shaktipeeth Expressway?
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Synopsis
In a pivotal decision, the Maharashtra Cabinet has approved the 802 km Shaktipeeth Expressway, a project poised to connect 18 sacred pilgrimage sites. With an estimated cost of Rs 86,300 crore, this expressway aims to enhance tourism and regional development while reducing travel time significantly. However, it faces opposition from farmers concerned about land impacts.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra Cabinet approves 802 km expressway.
- Project connects 18 pilgrimage sites in the state.
- Estimated cost: Rs 86,300 crore.
- Travel time reduced from 18-20 hours to 8-10 hours.
- State-run agency to oversee development.
Mumbai, June 24 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, has officially sanctioned the much-discussed 802-km six-lane Shaktipeeth Expressway. This significant infrastructure project will link 18 prominent pilgrimage sites, including three and a half Shaktipeeths, two Jyotirlingas, along with Pandharpur Ambajogai within the state.
The estimated cost of the project is Rs 86,300 crore and it will traverse through 12 districts.
The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation has been designated as the primary agency responsible for its development.
The Cabinet has sanctioned a budget of Rs 20,000 crore for project design and land acquisition.
The expressway will stretch from Pawanar in Wardha district to Patradevi in Sindhudurg district, significantly cutting down travel time from the current 18 to 20 hours to merely 8-10 hours.
According to government sources, the expressway is envisioned to enhance tourism, stimulate regional development, and provide improved access to spiritual sites. It will pass through three Shakti Peethas: Mahalaxmi (Kolhapur), Tulja Bhawani (Dharashiv), and Patradevi (Goa), as well as two Jyotirlingas: Aundha Nagnath (Hingoli) and Parli Vaijnath (Beed), and the historic town of Pandharpur, home to the Shri Vitthal-Rukmini Mandir.
Last week, Chief Minister Fadnavis directed the Finance Department to allocate Rs 12,000 crore for land acquisition linked to the Shaktipeeth Expressway.
"Delays in projects lead to significant cost escalations. All involved agencies have been given specific timelines, which must be strictly adhered to. The land acquisition process must be treated with seriousness and executed in a mission mode," he stated.
CM Fadnavis, a staunch supporter of the Shaktipeeth Expressway, asserted that the project will unlock new opportunities and transform the state.
He emphasized that the government will not impose the project on anyone, ensuring that they will listen to farmers' concerns. While some farmers have protested, others are planning gatherings to express their support for the initiative.
The Cabinet's approval arrives amid significant opposition protests, with farmers and villagers arguing that the proposed highway could harm their irrigated farmlands and primarily serve contractors' interests.
The Maha Vikas Aghadi coalition has opposed the project, contending that it will adversely impact farmers while benefiting contractors.
Opposition parties are expected to raise the issue during the upcoming Monsoon Session of the state legislature, which commences on June 30 in Mumbai.
Previously, the Mahayuti government had temporarily halted land acquisition for the expressway ahead of state Assembly elections due to strong protests, particularly from Kolhapur district. The governing partners—BJP, Shiv Sena, and NCP—feared electoral backlash if land acquisition proceeded. However, the government has revived the initiative now.
Point of View
It is imperative to present a balanced perspective on the Shaktipeeth Expressway project. While it promises economic development and enhanced connectivity to sacred sites, the concerns raised by farmers and local communities must be addressed. Ongoing discussions and negotiations are essential to ensure that the interests of all stakeholders are balanced with the state's developmental goals.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Shaktipeeth Expressway?
The Shaktipeeth Expressway is an 802-km six-lane highway designed to connect 18 pilgrimage sites across Maharashtra, significantly reducing travel time.
How much will the project cost?
The estimated cost of the Shaktipeeth Expressway is approximately Rs 86,300 crore.
Which areas will the expressway cover?
The expressway will traverse 12 districts, starting from Wardha and ending in Sindhudurg, linking major spiritual sites along the way.
What are the expected benefits of the expressway?
The expressway aims to boost tourism, enhance regional development, and improve access to important pilgrimage sites.
What concerns do farmers have regarding the project?
Farmers are concerned that the expressway's construction will damage their irrigated farmland and primarily benefit contractors.
