- The Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation (MSRDC) has received an overwhelming response from the public regarding the New Mahabaleshwar project. Out of the close to 900 responses received, 90% were suggestions and only 10% were objections.
- Villagers near Mahabaleshwar have shown keen interest in participating in the project, which aims for sustainable tourism without land acquisition. Many villagers have requested the inclusion of additional villages in the project, particularly from Panchgani and other eco-sensitive areas near the Western Ghats.
- Jitendra Bhopale, Director of Town Planning at MSRDC, shared that the response from the public includes demands for the inclusion of more villages in the project. The sustainable tourism model promises to boost local economies without displacing residents.
- Physical hearings on the suggestions and objections received will be conducted by MSRDC by the end of January or early February. A detailed report will then be submitted to the state government for approval.
- A meeting was held in Mumbai in December to address public concerns about the project, with representatives from 105 out of the 235 proposed villages in attendance. Social activist Laxman Jadhav led the effort to engage local communities and clarify any doubts about the project.
- The New Mahabaleshwar project aims to develop 293 villages across 1,153 square kilometers in the Mahabaleshwar area. The plan includes the development of 20 tourism hubs and innovative connectivity solutions like ropeways and waterways to create employment opportunities and foster economic growth while maintaining ecological balance.
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