Palghar :-In a significant stride towards improving accessibility and connecting remote areas, the Palghar district administration has successfully orchestrated the construction of roads for unconnected villages. With an allocation of ₹35,479.50 lakhs from the Birsa Munda Road Scheme, this initiative aims to bridge the transportation gap in far-flung regions.
The dire lack of transportation facilities in the secluded corners of Palghar district had sparked concerns and discussions among local representatives. The Zilla Parishad Chairman, Chief Executive Officer, Vice Chairman, All Committee Chairman, and other officials rallied behind the cause, ensuring consistent follow-up and progress.
One heartrending incident at Merkatwadi in Mokhada taluka, where a mother had to be transported to the hospital in a doli (a traditional palanquin), highlighted the urgent need for road connectivity. The incident led to a notice under Legislative Assembly Rule 105 in August 2022. Subsequently, a review meeting was convened in the Collector’s Office, Palghar, on August 21, 2022. The Hon. Tribal Development Minister issued instructions to submit proposals promptly for connecting all unconnected villages.
Taking swift action, the Zilla Parishad Construction Department conducted on-site inspections, identifying 164 unconnected village padas, comprising 9 villages and 154 padas, in need of road connectivity. The Maharashtra government’s allocation of approximately ₹5,000 crores for connecting tribal settlements in the state, through the Birsa Munda Linkage Scheme, provided a much-needed financial boost.
In correspondence dated April 24, 2023, the Chief Executive Officer of Palghar, G.P., submitted a proposal for the construction of roads to connect unconnected villages and padas. The proposed allocation of ₹35,479.50 lakhs was earmarked for this purpose. As of the current year, the department has already connected 1 habitation, with 163 remaining. The comprehensive plan envisions the construction of 140 roads to connect these remaining settlements to the main roads, ensuring improved accessibility and safety.
The implications of this initiative are far-reaching. The once-isolated villages, previously devoid of essential health facilities, were often fraught with accidents due to inaccessibility. The newly established roads are set to mitigate such accidents and usher in a new era of development and growth for these areas.
Prakash Nikam, a prominent figure in the district, expressed optimism about the transformative impact of this road construction on the lives of villagers. The concerted efforts of the Zilla Parishad and the government’s financial support have paved the way for a brighter future for Palghar’s remote communities.
The successful establishment of road connectivity stands as a testament to the power of persistent advocacy and administrative action. As unconnected villages find themselves linked to the broader road network, the Palghar district embarks on a journey of progress and inclusivity.
