MahaYuti Govt Cancels Shaktipeeth Highway Land Deal

11 Sep 2024 CW Team

In a major shift, the MahaYuti government has decided to cancel the land acquisition process for the ambitious 802 km Shaktipeeth Highway, following intense protests from farmers, opposition parties, and even some ruling party members.

The Rs 863 billion project, which aims to cut travel time between Nagpur and Goa from 13 hours to 8, was set to enhance regional connectivity and boost tourism by linking several prominent Hindu pilgrimage sites. However, significant opposition emerged from farmers concerned about losing 27,000 acres of land and potential impacts on agriculture.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde has directed the cancellation of the land acquisition process, initially planned to be completed by December. The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC), responsible for the project, has forwarded a proposal to halt the process.

Shinde assured that the project will only proceed after thoroughly considering the concerns of affected communities. The decision follows criticism from NCP(SP) chief Sharad Pawar, who had expressed strong opposition to the highway's development.

Infrastructure Transport

16 Sep 2025

Metro Line 2B Phase 1 to Boost Realty in Mumbai’s Eastern Suburbs

Mumbai’s real estate sector is set for a major boost as Phase 1 of Metro Line 2B, between Mandale and Diamond Garden, nears completion. The Mumbai Metropolitan Region Development Authority (MMRDA) has confirmed that mandatory rectifications are done, and inspections by the Commissioner of Metro Railway Safety (CMRS) have been carried out. The 5.39-km stretch with five stations forms part of the larger DN Nagar–Mandale corridor, designed to ease congestion and improve east–west connectivity. Passenger operations are expected by December 2025, with the full line slated for 2027. ..

WattPower wins Best Inverter award at Global Solar Expo 2025

WattPower, a leading renewable energy solutions provider, has won the award for “Best Inverter in the Utility Segment” at the Global Solar Expo 2025. The recognition underscores the company’s commitment to delivering reliable, high-performance and future-ready solar solutions for large-scale projects. At the forefront of utility-scale solar, WattPower manufactures advanced string inverters that directly feed power into the Indian grid. With robust technology, high-quality components and comprehensive product lifecycle support, its solutions stand among the most sophisticated in the ..

Awfis delivers 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub for eBay in Bengaluru

Awfis Space Solutions, India’s largest flexible workspace provider and the first publicly listed workspace solutions platform, has partnered with eBay to establish a 67,000 sq. ft. innovation hub at Embassy Tech Village, Bengaluru. The mandate covers design, build and management of the new office, which will act as a strategic hub supporting diverse functions and accelerating eBay’s AI-first commerce strategy. The centre will focus on artificial intelligence, engineering, product development and applied research, strengthening eBay’s growth in India. Embassy Tech Village, North Beng..