Villagers Protest Land Acquisition for Purandar Airport Near Pune
Villagers Protest Land Acquisition for Purandar Airport Near Pune
Hundreds of villagers belonging to seven villages that will lose 2,832 acres of land for the proposed Purandar Airport marched to the Panchayat Samiti office, opposing the proposed international airport project. Carrying black flags and placards, they raised concerns over land acquisition, inadequate compensation for farmers, and environmental damage.
The project, first announced in 2016, aims to boost economic growth and create jobs. However, locals fear it will disrupt their lives, livelihoods, and the region’s ecology. Farmers have been particularly vocal, citing low compensation, lack of consultation, and potential displacement.
Key affected villages include:Â Â
- Pargaon: 1,037 hectares
- Vanpuri: 339 hectares
- Udachi Wadi: 261 hectares
- Khanwadi: 484 hectares
- Kumbharwal: 351 hectares
- Gunjawadi: 140 hectares
- Ekhatpur: 271 hectares
Pargaon faces the highest land acquisition, while Vanpuri is densely populated, risking significant displacement. Agricultural lands, including orchards of figs, custard apples, and pomegranates, are the primary income sources that are under threat.
The Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) is responsible for land acquisition, but locals allege irregularities and non-compliance with the 2013 Land Acquisition Act. Political differences have further delayed the project. Former MLA Sanjay Jagtap opposed the airport, suggesting alternate sites, but these were rejected by the Defence Ministry. Current MLA Vijay Shivtare has advocated for IT parks and voluntary land acquisition, but no progress has been made.
Locals also accuse brokers and leaders of enabling cheap land sales to investors. Union Minister Muralidhar Mohol recently assured that the airport, with modern facilities, will be operational by 2029. However, protests continue as residents demand transparency and fair treatment.
The protestors have warned that if their voices are not heard, they will notch up the protests.
