Pune, 13th January 2025: The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has received close to 900 responses from the public following the publication of the revised development plan for the ambitious New Mahabaleshwar project. Officials revealed that an overwhelming 90% of these responses were suggestions, while only 10% were objections. Several villagers residing near the eco-sensitive hill station have also expressed interest in actively participating in the project.
The MSRDC had issued a notification on 10th October 2024, inviting citizens to share objections and suggestions regarding the draft development plan. The response has been largely positive, with many villagers keen to be included in the sustainable tourism model proposed under the project, which notably avoids land acquisition.
“The majority of responses comprise suggestions, particularly demands for the inclusion of additional villages in the project,” said Jitendra Bhopale, Director of Town Planning at MSRDC. He explained that these demands are likely driven by the sustainable tourism approach, which promises to boost local economies without displacing residents.
The proposals include requests to add villages from Panchgani and other eco-sensitive areas near the Western Ghats. The MSRDC plans to hold physical hearings on the received suggestions and objections by the end of January or early February, following which a detailed report will be submitted to the state government for approval.
In December, a large meeting was convened in Mumbai to address public concerns about the project. Representatives from 105 of the 235 proposed villages attended the meeting. Laxman Jadhav, a social activist from Satara, spearheaded the effort to engage local communities. “The main concerns raised were about land acquisition and migration. After MSRDC officials provided clarity on the project, many attendees expressed willingness to participate,” Jadhav noted.
The New Mahabaleshwar project envisions the sustainable development of 293 villages across approximately 1,153 square kilometers in the Mahabaleshwar area. Key highlights of the plan include the development of 20 tourism hubs and innovative connectivity solutions such as ropeways and waterways. The initiative aims to create employment opportunities for local residents, traders, youth, entrepreneurs, and artisans, fostering economic growth while preserving the region’s ecological balance.
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