Junnar, a taluka in Maharashtra, is gearing up for an exciting venture with the approval and allocation of 650 acres of land by the state government for the ambitious “Leopard Safari” project. The initiative, spearheaded by former MLA Sharad Sonwane, has received a substantial fund of Rs 80 crores, signifying the government’s commitment to the region’s progress.
During a press conference held at the government rest house in Junnar, Sonwane expressed gratitude to Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and Ajit Pawar for their efforts in securing funds and approvals for various developmental projects aimed at the city and taluka’s advancement.
A private agency has conducted a survey of the Darya Ghat in the tribal areas, and the project report is currently being prepared by the government. In addition to the Leopard Safari project, the state government has already allocated Rs 118 crores for multiple development endeavors in historic Junnar. Out of this, around Rs 100 crores will be utilized for ongoing and upcoming development works, which are set to commence shortly.
Sonwane further revealed that Rs 21 crores have been approved to ensure a water supply to the citizens of Junnar city from Manikdoh dam through a closed channel. Various developmental projects, including road concreting, Sabha Mandap Samaj Temple, closed gutters, footpaths, drain construction, water purification project, protective walls, street lights, and Dashakriya Ghat beautification, have also received significant funding.
As part of the Nagrotthan Yojana, a notable underground gutter scheme project worth 39 crores has been approved for Junnar city. This project involves purifying impure water and releasing it into the river basin through the ATP project.
Despite the region’s abundance of water, some areas in Junnar still face drought-like conditions due to inadequate planning in previous years. However, with the recent approvals and funds, Junnar is poised to become an attractive tourist destination, fostering growth and development in the region. The Leopard Safari venture, along with various other developmental initiatives, is expected to transform Junnar’s landscape and enhance its appeal as a vibrant and thriving destination.
