Maha CM Devendra Fadnavis backs Shaktipeeth Expressway despite Opposition's resistance

Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has pushed for the construction of the Shaktipeeth Expressway linking Nagpur to Mumbai despite misgivings and opposition against the project even within the BJP as well as from farmers whose lands will be taken away for the project.

- STATESMAN NEWS SERVICE

Villagers and farmers from 12 districts of Maharashtra staged a protest at Azad Maidan in Mumbai while the Opposition Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) comprising the Congress, the Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena and the Sharad Pawar-headed NCP, along with farmers' leader and Swabhimani Shetkari Sanghatana founder Raju Shetti backed the protestors, by joining them at the Azad Maidan.

However, responding to a question by Uddhav Thackeray-led Shiv Sena leader Ambadas Danve, who is the leader of the upper house, Fadnavis said in the Maharashtra state legislative council, "There are more farmers in favour of the Shaktipeeth Expressway project than against it. The Shaktipeeth Expressway is not just a road but a project that will change the face of five districts just like Samruddhi Expressway did. We will not force the project on anyone. We will sit and understand the issues of farmers. While some farmers are protesting there are more farmers who plan to have gatherings to show their support to the project."