PONDA: The Bhoma Dhajaan Samaj Committee, representing the entire village, has announced a public meeting to be held at Bhoma’s Sateri Temple on Sunday, August 13, at 4.30 pm. The meeting aims to address and finalise the decision regarding the contentious issue of National Highway (NH) expansion. The local populace is expected to stage a protest, demonstrating their collective strength and voicing their concerns against the proposed project. Their main demand is the construction of a bypass at Bhoma, as fears loom over potential losses due to the widening project.
It should be noted that the decisions made by the Dhajaan Samaj hold significant influence over the villagers.
The six temples under the Dhalaan Samaj’s guardianship, including Sati Devastan, Maru Devastan, Mahadev and Sateri temple, Mallikarjun, and a temple at Kali Mati, hold immense cultural value for the villagers. The potential loss of space for traditional rituals and celebrations is also a pressing concern.
Recent notices of land acquisition have disclosed the possible displacement of around 64 households due to the NH expansion. In light of this revelation, villagers have begun rallying together, hosting a series of meetings to articulate their collective concerns. A significant turnout is anticipated from both Kali Mati and Bhoma for the upcoming meeting.
Sanjay Naik, a prominent local figure leading the agitation, expressed concerns that the beneficiaries of the NH expansion would predominantly be landlords and builders, while homeowners would face displacement, loss of property, and a changed village landscape. “Earlier, the government said only four people were opposing the expansion, but today, the entire village has united. We will pass a resolution at Sunday’s meeting, and submit a memorandum to the government,” he said.
