Did the Maharashtra government just sign two groundbreaking MoUs for a hydropower project and safari plaza?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra government signs two critical MoUs.
- Investment of Rs 1,000 crore for the hydropower project.
- Creation of 300 job opportunities.
- The Tillari Pumped Storage Project enhances renewable energy integration.
- Gorewada Zoo's development promotes wildlife conservation.
Mumbai, July 1 (NationPress) The government of Maharashtra has officially inked two significant MoUs on Tuesday, one focusing on the energy sector and the other on the forest sector, with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis in attendance.
The Water Resources Department of the state has entered into an agreement with Shree Tatysaheb Kore Warana Cooperative Navshakti Nirman Sanstha in Warananagar to initiate the 240 MW Tillari Pumped Storage Hydropower (PSH) Project.
This ambitious initiative involves an investment of Rs 1,000 crore and is expected to create 300 job opportunities.
A post from the Chief Minister's Office on its official X account stated, "Powering Progress. Fueling a Green Future. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis oversaw the signing of an MoU between the Maharashtra government's Water Resources Department and Shree Tatysaheb Kore Warana Cooperative Navshakti Nirman Sanstha for the 240 MW Tillari Pumped Storage Project. This marks the 16th MoU under Maharashtra's renewable energy initiative, further propelling the state towards a sustainable and energy-secure future." The event was attended by Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil, MLA Vinay Kore, and various senior officials.
The Water Resources Department has noted that the PSH project will provide stable support during peak demand periods, ensuring an uninterrupted power supply while facilitating the integration of variable renewable energy sources without grid disruptions.
These projects are also recognized for their lower carbon emissions compared to fossil fuel-based plants, according to the department.
In a separate agreement, the Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra (FDCM) Gorewada Zoo Limited in Nagpur signed an MoU with National Buildings Construction Corporation (NBCC) to develop an African Safari, Safari Plaza, and related works under Phase-2 of the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park in Nagpur.
The Chief Minister's Office announced, "CM Devendra Fadnavis presided over the signing of the MoU between FDCM Gorewada Zoo Limited and NBCC for the development of the African Safari and Safari Plaza within the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park. This event was attended by State Forest Minister Ganesh Naik and other senior officials."
According to sources from the Forest department, the FDCM Gorewada Zoo (FGZ) in Nagpur serves as a vital centre for wildlife conservation and education.
This facility encompasses the Balasaheb Thackeray Gorewada International Zoological Park, a rescue centre, and the Wildlife Research and Training Centre.
FGZ is committed to enhancing biodiversity, providing recreational options, and increasing public awareness about environmental issues.
Additionally, it hosts a conservation breeding programme aimed at endangered species.
The FDCM Gorewada Zoo plays a crucial role in nurturing a culture of conservation and advancing wildlife preservation efforts in the region.