The long dispute over the Halga–Machhe Bypass took an important turn on Monday. Deputy Commissioner (DC) Mohammad Roshan assured farmers that the disputed land will be re-surveyed, the waterlogging problem will be fixed, and all documents needed for the farmers’ court case will be given to them.
The DC visited the bypass site after farmers, led by Ramakant Konduskar, submitted a complaint last Friday. They said the road work was being done illegally and demanded that it should be stopped immediately.
When the DC arrived, many farmers gathered around him. Leaders like Ramakant Konduskar, Raju Marve, and Prakash Nayak said the project had damaged fertile land and caused loss of livelihood, and asked for the bypass to be cancelled.
DC Roshan tried to calm them and asked everyone to sit together and talk. The farmers requested the original work order and official notification of the bypass project.
The DC agreed to address their main concerns:
1. Legal Documents: All papers needed for the farmers’ court case will be provided.
2. Waterlogging: Officials will inspect the affected areas in Vadgaon and Yellur and take steps to drain the water.
3. Land Records: Survey numbers will be checked again. If land that was not acquired is included by mistake, names will be removed. If land is actually affected, proper notices will be issued.
Speaking to the media, the DC said the bypass work was stuck for 10 years due to court cases. After a recent High Court order, NHAI has restarted the construction work.
He added, “Farmers are our brothers. We respect their contribution. Whatever decisions are needed will be taken according to the law after proper inspection.”
Officials and engineers from NHAI and the district administration were also present during the visit.
