Realigned Shaktipeeth Eway to cost Rs1.01 lakh crore The proposed Nagpur-Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway, a major infrastructure project in Maharashtra, has seen its estimated cost rise to Rs1.01 lakh crore under a revised alignment, according to information shared with the Maharashtra Legislative Council on Tuesday. The revised plan, which spans 856.77 kilometers—up from the original 802.59 kilometers—now passes through 13 districts, including the addition of Satara. The project’s alignment was adjusted in several districts following feedback from local representatives, farmers, and residents. The revised design replaces the earlier proposal of a single 21-kilometer tunnel through the Western Ghats with six separate tunnels. This change was made to prioritize road safety, ease of construction, and long-term maintenance costs. The modifications were implemented in districts such as Hingoli, Nanded, Parbhani, Dharashiv, Solapur, Sangli, Kolhapur, and Sindhudurg, reflecting adjustments to address community concerns and logistical challenges. Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde confirmed that the revised alignment was sanctioned on April 1 and that construction will proceed in phases once necessary approvals are secured. He outlined that land acquisition compensation will be determined under the Maharashtra Highways Act, 1955, along with current government rules, ensuring market value and eligible resettlement benefits for affected individuals. The project’s funding strategy is still under review, with options including loans from the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), long-term financial institution funds, and phased funding plans. However, no specific timeline for the start of construction was provided in the response.#eknath_shinde #maharashtra_legislative_council #msrdc #shaktipeeth_eway #maharashtra_highways_act
