Fadnavis defends Shaktipeeth Expressway, says worldwide infra is built by taking loans
Mumbai: Defending the Rs 12,000 crore Shaktipeeth Expressway, chief minister
Devendra Fadnavis
said that worldwide, infrastructure is built by taking loans.
"When an expressway is built, it opens up avenues for the economy.
When we invest Rs 12,000 crore, it creates the ability not just to repay the loan but also to give far greater returns.
Worldwide, loans for infrastructure are considered good as they pay rich dividends," said Fadnavis.
He mentioned that there was opposition to the Samruddhi Expressway as well, but it changed the picture in several districts. "If the picture in Marathwada and drought-affected regions is to be changed, then the Shaktipeeth Expressway is the answer.
It is not just an access-controlled road; our efforts are to ensure that for every 500 km, we shall create 500-1,000 farm ponds. We shall build bunds across the nullahs which cross this expressway to ensure water conservation and raise the groundwater level," he said.
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Brushing aside criticism that the finance department objected to the money being spent on the project, Fadnavis said the department did not take any objections but rather pointed out issues that needed clarification, which the other department addressed.
by Taboola
by Taboola
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On the continuing opposition to the Vadhavan port, Fadnavis said that at the public hearing, 50,000 people signed in favour of the project. "Whenever a project is announced, there are people who oppose it, but the majority have come in support of it. I have also seen the number of people who oppose the project; there are not many. In a democracy, everyone's concerns must be addressed, but the view of the majority must be respected," he said.
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