CM to discuss issue of Shivaji Maharaj statue with Natarajan

Maharashtra Chief Minister Prithivraj Chavan today said he would discuss the process of expediting permissions for starting work on the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj's statue in the Arabian Sea with Union Environment Minister Jayanthi Natarajan next week.
He told reporters that the union minister will be in Mumbai on April 2 and the issue of speeding up 25 clearances will be taken up with her.
Chavan and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar, along with Mumbai city Gaurdian Minister Jayant Patil visited the proposed site, a rocky area of 16 hectares under water, four kms into the sea from Marine Drive and a km from Raj Bhavan, for the proposed 309-ft statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji in the Arabian Sea.

A team of experts was asked to suggest an ideal location. After conducting feasibility survey of three sites in the Arabian Sea, the experts came to a conclusion that the site situated between Raj Bhavan and Navy Nagar, would be ideal for the statue.
The proposed memorial will house an open-air theatre, a library and a museum showcasing the Maratha warrior's life.
Experts are of the opinion that the rock between the Raj Bhavan and Navy Nagar will not need any reclamation, thus making it easier for the government.
Also, during the low-tide, the water level near the rock is at a comfortable height and will not cause a problem for movement of boats.