The Maharashtra government has issued fresh Section 11 notifications for the proposed Shaktipeeth Highway project in Kolhapur, marking a major step forward in the long-delayed infrastructure initiative. The notifications cover parts of Panhala and Karveer talukas, where several villages are expected to be directly impacted by the planned road expansion. Officials confirmed that the move follows months of internal review and consultation, though local resistance from farmer groups has already begun to mount.
Under Section 11 of the Land Acquisition Act, the government can now initiate preliminary surveys and site inspections in the affected areas. While no final list of villages has been officially published, sources indicate that nearly two dozen small hamlets and agricultural pockets may fall within the proposed corridor. The project aims to connect key pilgrimage and commercial routes, improving connectivity between Kolhapur, Nagpur, and Goa.
The Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana, a prominent farmers’ union active in the region, has voiced strong objections to the acquisition process. In a statement released earlier this week, the union alleged that farmers were not adequately consulted before the notifications were issued. “We demand transparent dialogue and fair compensation for all landowners affected by this project,” said a representative of the union. The group has also criticized the pace of communication from local authorities, claiming that many residents only learned of the notifications through word of mouth.
Compensation remains a central concern among local communities. While the state has pledged to follow guidelines under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, 2013, many farmers fear that market rates will not reflect the true value of their land. Some residents have reported receiving preliminary notices but expressed confusion about how the assessment process will work. “We want clarity on how our land will be valued and when we can expect payments,” said one farmer from a village near Panhala.
From a broader infrastructure perspective, the Shaktipeeth Highway is being positioned as a transformative link for the region. Once completed, officials say the upgraded corridor could cut travel times between Nagpur and Kolhapur by up to 90 minutes, while also easing congestion on existing routes leading to Goa. The project is part of a larger state-level push to improve road connectivity in western and central Maharashtra.
Construction timelines remain uncertain, with estimates suggesting the first phase could begin in early 2025, pending clearances and resolution of pending objections. The Public Works Department has indicated that environmental and heritage clearances are currently underway, particularly in areas near the Western Ghats. Local leaders have called for greater transparency in the process, urging the government to hold public hearings before proceeding with land acquisition.
Despite the pushback, some residents see potential benefits. Small business owners along the proposed route have expressed hope that improved connectivity could boost local commerce. “Better roads mean more customers and easier transport of goods,” said one shopkeeper. However, for many farming families, the trade-off between progress and displacement continues to weigh heavily.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on how the state balances infrastructure ambitions with the rights and livelihoods of affected communities. With objections still being filed and compensation frameworks yet to be finalized, the next few months will likely determine the trajectory of one of Kolhapur’s most ambitious road projects in recent memory.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which talukas and villages are affected by the Shaktipeeth Highway land acquisition?
The Section 11 notifications cover parts of Panhala and Karveer talukas in Kolhapur. A final list of affected villages has not yet been officially published.
Why are farmers protesting the Shaktipeeth Highway project?
The Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana and local farmers have raised concerns over lack of consultation, fair compensation, and transparency in the land acquisition process.
How will the Shaktipeeth Highway impact travel times?
Once complete, the highway is expected to reduce travel times between Nagpur, Kolhapur, and Goa, with estimates suggesting up to 90 minutes saved between Nagpur and Kolhapur.
What is Section 11 of the Land Acquisition Act?
Section 11 allows the government to initiate preliminary surveys and site inspections in areas proposed for acquisition, marking the first formal step in the process.
When is the Shaktipeeth Highway project expected to start?
The first phase is estimated to begin in early 2025, pending clearances and resolution of pending objections from local communities.
