Kolhapur: The second phase of the survey for land acquisition required for the development of the Mahalaxmi temple area, with a plan worth Rs 1445.9 crore, has commenced, according to district collector Vijay Rathod, who also serves as the head of Paschim Maharashtra Devasthan Samiti (PMDS). A total of 10 acres of land surrounding the Mahalaxmi Temple will need to be acquired for this development work, and the acquisition will be carried out in two phases, the collector stated.
Government Approval and First Phase
The state government approved a plan of Rs 1445.9 crore for the development of the Mahalaxmi (Ambabai) temple pilgrimage site on May 6, 2025. In the first phase of the plan, the temple, its idols, and 64 temples in the area will be developed at a cost of Rs 143 crore. The work of preserving and conserving the Yoginis sculpture has also begun.
Second Phase Facilities
In the second phase, various facilities such as a darshan mandap, tourist plaza, parking, and others will be provided to devotees within the temple premises. For this, land will be acquired in the area, with a fund of about Rs 980 crore allocated.
Survey and Valuation Process
In the first phase of land acquisition, a survey of approximately 5 acres of land within a 10-metre radius near the temple was conducted. The actual valuation of 136 properties has commenced. Meanwhile, since at least 10 acres of land may be required in the temple area, a survey of the remaining 5 acres has also started. After the survey is completed, the properties will be evaluated by the public works department, after which a report will be sent to the state government. Subsequently, a decision will be made on the exact amount of land to be acquired and whether to provide cash compensation or resettle at another location.
