Once again the villagers from Bhoma came out in protest against the National Highway expansion. Residents of Bhoma village staged a protest against the proposed expansion plan of the existing National Highway (NH) and gheraoed the Sarpanch. The villagers expressed concerns over the impact on their village and temples.
During a meeting with a local MLA and Minister Govind Gaude, the villagers had emphasized their request for a bypass option. The locals pointed out the unusual situation where bypasses are typically constructed to protect villages, but Bhoma seems to be an exception. Despite successfully halting the NH expansion plan in 2012 through a previous bypass-related protest, the project has now been resurrected, seemingly contradicting the Regional Plan.
A local resident disclosed that the proposed land acquisition would encompass a substantial 45,000 square meters, which includes a significant 1,030 square meters belonging to a revered temple. He indicated that beyond just filing objections to the land acquisition, the locals are even prepared to escalate the matter to the High Court if the highway expansion plan is not reevaluated.
Responding to the growing tension, Minister Govind Gaude attempted to ease the villagers’ worries by assuring them that no residences or temples would be adversely affected. He proposed an innovative solution in the form of a flyover constructed on stilts over the existing road. Furthermore, he offered to arrange a meeting between NH authorities, the PWD Minister, and the Chief Minister, encouraging residents to contribute their suggestions and ideas before August 25.
In response to the minister’s proposal, the villagers emphasized their lack of technical expertise and engineering knowledge. They called upon the government, which has access to expert officials and engineers, to conduct thorough surveys within the village. They also suggested that the government should present two to three alternative bypass routes that could be considered.
As the situation unfolds, Bhoma villagers remain resolute in their stand against the highway expansion, advocating for a solution that both preserves their village’s integrity and addresses their concerns over potential temple disruption.
