Is the Maharashtra Government Ready to Compensate Koyna Dam Project-Affected Families?
Click to start listening
Synopsis
The Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister has pledged to assist the individuals affected by the Koyna Dam project, emphasizing the government's duty to provide alternative land. This long-standing issue is finally being addressed, following directives from the Bombay High Court, ensuring that the affected families receive the support they rightfully deserve.
Key Takeaways
- Maharashtra government acknowledges the sacrifices of Koyna Dam project-affected families.
- Alternative land will be provided as part of rehabilitation efforts.
- District Collectors are tasked with verifying proposals for land allotment.
- Swift action is necessary to resolve long-standing issues.
- The Bombay High Court's involvement highlights the urgency of the matter.
Mumbai, May 15 (NationPress) The Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister, Ajit Pawar, stated on Thursday that individuals impacted by the Koyna Dam project have made significant sacrifices for the state, and it is the government's duty to offer them alternative land.
He emphasized that proposals for land allocation received from the District Collectors of Pune, Satara, Sangli, and Solapur should be promptly verified and submitted to the Divisional Commissioner of Pune by the end of this month.
Pawar instructed the Pune Divisional Commissioner to assess the applications and organize a meeting with organizations representing the project-affected individuals in the first half of June, ensuring that eligible beneficiaries receive land allotment without any delay.
During a meeting at Mantralaya, Pawar remarked that the complete rehabilitation and land allocation for those affected by the Koyna Dam have been pending for an extended period and called for resolution without further postponement. The meeting included the Relief and Rehabilitation Minister, Makarand Patil, and government officials.
“Currently, a list of 310 eligible project-affected persons from Satara and 215 from Sangli has been compiled, and urgent action is needed to finalize land allotment for them. District Collectors from other districts must also verify pending proposals and forward them for further action. The Divisional Commissioner is empowered to make decisions at his level, while matters needing government intervention should be escalated for prompt action,” stated Pawar.
His directives were issued in response to a request from the Bombay High Court, which urged the state government to provide alternate land for families affected by the Koyna dam's construction in 1960, noting that they had not received promised land.
The petitioner mentioned that in November 2017, 1.6 hectares of land were allocated to the Kadam family in Pendhar, Panvel, following a state policy aimed at rehabilitating displaced families.
However, in January 2019, this allotment was suddenly revoked, with the state government asserting that the land was uneven, fragmented, and had existing constructions.
Point of View
NationPress
12/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Koyna Dam project?
The Koyna Dam project is a large hydroelectric project in Maharashtra, India, which has resulted in significant displacement of local communities since its construction.
What compensation is being provided to affected families?
The Maharashtra government is working to provide alternative land to families affected by the Koyna Dam project, as mandated by recent government directives.
Why was the land allotment to the Kadam family revoked?
The state government claimed that the land allotted to the Kadam family was uneven, not contiguous, and had existing structures on it.
What actions are being taken to expedite land allotment?
The Deputy Chief Minister has instructed district officials to verify and expedite pending land allotment proposals for affected individuals.
How many families are currently eligible for land allotment?
Currently, lists indicate that 310 individuals from Satara district and 215 from Sangli district are eligible for land allotment.
