Cite threat to Dronagiri Mountain

Uran: Recent changes to the Reddi-Revas Karanja bridge project have sparked significant unrest among local farmers, who argue that the new route jeopardizes the historic and mythological Dronagiri Mountain.

The project, initially planned in 1980, has seen a revised alignment that now places the bridge at the base of Dronagiri Mountain, a site renowned for its historical and cultural significance.

On August 5, land acquisition officials from the Panvel Sub-Divisional Office visited Karanja village to issue measurement notices for the new land acquisition process. This move is part of the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation's updated plan, which has faced strong opposition from the local community.

Farmers, led by Karanja Gramastha Mandal President Kalpesh Thali, Nawapada Gramastha Mandal President Manohar Thakur, and social activist Sachin Daur, have voiced their objections. They assert that the modification of the original 1980 plan, announced by the late Chief Minister A.R. Antulay appears to be designed to benefit wealthy landowners. This new route threatens the integrity of Dronagiri Mountain, they argue.

The protestors contend that the revised route poses a serious risk to the mountain’s existence and are calling for a return to the original alignment. They urge the government to reconsider the revisions and safeguard the historical site.

To address these concerns, a meeting will be held at the collector’s office under the leadership of Raigad MP Sunil Tatkare and Maval MP Shrirang Barne. The farmers hope that this meeting will result in a resolution that balances development needs with the preservation of Dronagiri Mountain’s historical and mythological heritage.