Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis conducted a comprehensive review of land acquisition processes for crucial infrastructure projects in the Vidarbha region on Tuesday. The meeting, held in Mumbai, focused on accelerating the acquisition while maintaining transparency and protecting the interests of landowners.
Key Projects Under Review
During the review session, officials discussed projects managed by the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) and the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC). Specific attention was given to several high-priority expressways and corridors, including the Shaktipeeth expressway, Nagpur-Gondia expressway, Bhandara-Gadchiroli expressway, Nagpur-Chandrapur expressway, and the Navegaon-Surjagad mineral corridor.
Emphasis on Fair and Swift Acquisition
CM Fadnavis stressed the need for land acquisition to proceed swiftly but fairly, ensuring that farmers and landholders who offer their land for these projects are treated with due care and respect. He highlighted the importance of balancing development goals with social responsibility.
Strategic Priorities for Officials
Fadnavis directed officials to prioritize the acquisition of large, contiguous land parcels that are free from forest cover. This approach aims to streamline project implementation and minimize environmental disruptions. He also set a clear timeline, urging officials to plan for the completion of ongoing projects within the next three years.
Current Land Availability and Future Targets
Officials provided updates on land availability, reporting that 8,969 acres are currently available with various departments for industrial development. Additionally, 20,431 acres have been newly acquired to support these initiatives. Looking ahead, CM Fadnavis set an ambitious long-term target for MIDC: to make one lakh acres available to meet the rising demand for industrial and infrastructure development.
Expanding Development Beyond Traditional Hubs
Fadnavis noted that demand for industrial land is expanding beyond the traditional Mumbai-Pune-Nagpur belt. Emerging regions such as Nashik, Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, and Solapur are also witnessing increased interest, underscoring the need for strategic land acquisition across Maharashtra.
This review underscores the state government's commitment to boosting infrastructure in Vidarbha while ensuring that development is inclusive and respectful of landowners' rights.
