Widening of NH-73 Sparks Controversy Over Forest Land Acquisition in Charmadi Ghat

The National Highways Division of the Public Works Department is proposing to widen the existing 11.2-km stretch of National Highway-73 (NH-73) into a two-lane road with paved shoulders. This project requires the acquisition of 38.70 acres of forest land in the Charmadi Ghat area, which is known for being landslide-prone. The Deputy Conservator of Forests stated that the area falls within the 'Tiger Corridor,' noting that 5.33 km of forest land and 1.75 km of non-forest land are directly within this corridor.

The plan has drawn heavy criticism from environmentalists due to the lack of a proper geological and landslide study for the area. The PWD defended the widening project by stating that the current road width and design are inadequate for the increasing volume of heavy goods vehicle traffic, which currently causes congestion, delays, and accidents.