Shiv Sena MLA Rajesh Kshirsagar announced plans to request Rs 15 billion from the state government to develop a network of ring roads around Kolhapur city, enhancing connectivity with the Shaktipeeth highway. The proposed project aims to ease vehicular movement and boost infrastructure as the highway passes through the district.
Kshirsagar's statement comes amid opposition from farmers to the Nagpur-Goa Shaktipeeth highway. He stated, "The Shaktipeeth highway will pass through Kolhapur district, and a network of ring roads will improve the city’s connectivity and traffic flow. The KMC administrator has been directed to prepare a proposal, and we will seek Rs 15 billion for this project from the state government."
A meeting to discuss the proposal was held with KMC administrator K. Manjulekshmi, additional commissioner Rahul Rokade, and city engineer Netradeep Sarnobat on Tuesday evening.
Kshirsagar also highlighted other developmental initiatives, noting that Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had pledged Rs 500 million for the Kolhapur Municipal Corporation's main administrative building and increased the flood control fund allocation to Rs 37 billion. Additionally, efforts are ongoing to secure Rs 5 billion under the Mahalaxmi Temple Tourism Development Plan.
He emphasised the need for delimitation to ensure Kolhapur’s growth, stating, "Kolhapur city will not progress without delimitation. We are pushing for an expansion of city limits and will discuss this with CM Devendra Fadnavis and Deputy CM Eknath Shinde. Increasing the city's boundaries remains a priority."
(ET)
