Maharashtra Government Stops Rs 40,000 Crore Projects Over Cost Overrun
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis made a significant announcement on Tuesday. He revealed that his government has stopped urban development department projects worth Rs 40,000 crore. This decision came due to massive cost overruns in these projects.
Fadnavis spoke at a joint interactive session with Indian Express and Loksatta in Mumbai. He addressed concerns about transparency and governance raised by opposition parties during poll campaigns. The Chief Minister emphasized his commitment to accountability.
Probe Ordered for Greater Transparency
The government has ordered a probe into all these stopped projects. This investigation aims to ensure greater transparency and accountability within the system. Fadnavis stated that every project is now being closely monitored and reviewed.
He took this action in consultation with Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde. Since Fadnavis assumed charge as Chief Minister, there has been a noticeable decline in bidding costs for tenders. The reduction ranges from 10 to 12 percent for various BMC and other infrastructure projects.
Addressing Opposition Charges
Fadnavis also responded to opposition allegations about land parcels and Marathi interests. He clarified that the previous MVA government led by Uddhav Thackeray facilitated Dharavi redevelopment. They cancelled the previous contract for this project.
The Chief Minister asserted that his party is not on the backfoot regarding Marathi issues. "We are batting on the front foot," he declared. He explained that BJP's aggression in local body polls stems from their importance as political lifelines.
Political Dynamics and Alliances
Fadnavis addressed the contest between allies BJP and Shiv Sena in several places. He acknowledged some tussles at the local level. For instance, in the Ambernath council body where both parties contested, top leaders stayed out of the conflict.
Regarding the power tussle within Mahayuti's three ruling parties, Fadnavis downplayed tensions. He mentioned that all parties agreed to alliances where possible and friendly contests elsewhere. However, he noted that NCP leader Ajit Pawar has engaged in bitter attacks against him in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad.
Development Agenda and Environmental Plans
The Chief Minister highlighted his development agenda. He pointed out that BJP secured maximum MLAs in Mumbai and Maharashtra during past Assembly elections. This achievement required support from local communities.
Fadnavis also outlined environmental initiatives. A climate action plan worth Rs 17,000 crore is high on the government's agenda. This plan tackles environmental issues including air pollution. It covers all civic bodies like Mumbai, Nagpur, Nashik, and Pune.
The government has chalked out plans for sewage treatment plants to address water pollution. Previously, untreated sewage in Mumbai flowed directly into the sea. These new measures aim to rectify this problem.
Fadnavis reaffirmed commitment to Mumbai's cosmopolitan character. "We are committed to giving Mumbaikars a better life," he stated. The government continues to focus on infrastructure and environmental improvements across the state.
