In a significant development, the district administration has taken a responsive step by extending the deadline for land acquisition proceedings related to the proposed Pune Ring Road project. This decision comes in light of concerns raised by farmers in the affected villages, particularly those in the Khed taluka, encompassing 12 villages. The Maharashtra Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) is spearheading the ambitious ring road project, aiming to address the persistent issue of traffic congestion in Pune and Pimpri-Chinchwad cities.
Understanding the Project Phases: East and West
The Pune Ring Road project is strategically divided into two phases: East and West. Notably, 60 percent of the land required for the western route has already been acquired. However, the eastern route, impacting 12 villages in the Khed taluka under the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), has prompted concerns and negotiations.
Extension of Deadline in Response to Farmers’ Concerns
Local residents, particularly farmers, expressed their apprehension about the assessed land rates in the affected villages being set too low. In response to these concerns, a dialogue unfolded between the farmers and Collector Dr. Rajesh Deshmukh. Following these discussions, farmers collectively requested an extension of the deadline for providing consent letters for land allotment, coupled with a reevaluation of the land rates.
This appeal gained traction during a review meeting of the committee overseeing the Pune Ring Road project, leading to the official extension of the deadline until November 30. The district administration’s flexibility in addressing the concerns of the affected communities showcases a commitment to a fair and inclusive land acquisition process.
Current Status of Land Acquisition: West and East Routes
Simultaneously, the meeting delved into the status of land acquisition on both the western and eastern routes. On the western route, 32 out of 34 villages are in the final stages of land acquisition, with 653 hectares out of the total 721 already secured. In the eastern part, 105 hectares of land have been successfully acquired. The administration has emphasized its dedication to ensuring fair compensation and maintaining transparency throughout the acquisition process.
