Maharashtra Government Diverts 186 Hectares of Forest Land for Gadchiroli Highway Expansion
The Maharashtra government has taken a significant step towards enhancing road infrastructure in the Gadchiroli district by issuing two separate orders to divert approximately 186 hectares of forest land. This land will be used for the upgrade of the Gadchiroli-Allapalli-Sironcha stretch of National Highway 353C, transforming it into a 2/4-lane road with paved shoulders.
First Order: Diverting 132 Hectares from Zamela Nalla to Sironcha
In the first order, the revenue and forest department diverted just over 132 hectares of forest land. This area falls within a 22-metre right of way extending from Zamela Nalla to Sironcha. The proposal was initially submitted by the additional principal chief conservator of forests and nodal officer, and it was subsequently forwarded to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change (MoEFCC).
The integrated regional office of MoEFCC in Nagpur granted in-principle approval for this diversion on January 30, 2023. Following compliance with all stipulated conditions, final approval was issued on December 17, 2025.
Second Order: Additional 54 Hectares for Gitali-Mosam-Zamela Nalla Stretch
A second order diverts an additional 54 hectares of forest land for the stretch from Gitali-Mosam-Zamela Nalla. This diversion covers land falling within 11-metre and 22-metre right of way areas in Mulchera and Aheri talukas under the Allapalli division.
Similar to the first order, the regional office of MoEFCC in Nagpur granted in-principle approval on November 21, 2023, with final approval following on December 17, 2025, after all conditions were met.
Conditions and Responsibilities for Land Diversion
Both orders have directed that the forest land be formally diverted in favour of the executive engineer of the National Highway Division in Gadchiroli. This diversion is subject to strict compliance with conditions laid down by the central government.
The deputy conservators of forests in Sironcha and Allapalli have been tasked with ensuring the fulfilment of key conditions. Their responsibilities include obtaining a no-objection certificate from the Forest Development Corporation of Maharashtra before handing over the land for the highway project.
Addressing Delays in Infrastructure Clearances
In the past, ministers and even Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis have expressed dissatisfaction over delays by the forest department in granting clearances for crucial infrastructure projects, particularly in the Gadchiroli region. These concerns have been raised in numerous review meetings, highlighting the need for expedited processes to support vital development initiatives.
The upgrade of road infrastructure in Gadchiroli is strategically aimed at boosting ongoing projects in the region and significantly improving connectivity. This move is expected to facilitate economic growth and enhance accessibility for local communities.
