Maha to exclude 17 villages from Jayakwadi bird sanctuary

This was announced by Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar while chairing a meeting on objections and suggestions to the Centre's decision to declare the sanctuary and the area within the radius of 10 km around its boundary as eco-sensitive zone.

As per the decision, the state government has to notify how many and which villages in the said radius will become eco-sensitive. Failing which, the entire ten-km zone will be marked as protected.

Pawar said the proposal of excluding 17 villages will be sent to the Centre.

There will be no problem for excavation of sand and rock used for building purpose in this zone. Besides, farming and agriculture related environment-friendly activities can also be conducted. Strict ban on tree felling, polluting industries and use of plastic will be enforced, the deputy chief minister said.

Meanwhile, Pawar asked the BrihanMumbai Municipal Corporation to undertake construction of Pinjal and Gargai dams under the Middle Vaitarna power project.

In view of growing population in Mumbai, the two dams are of significance given the rising demand for drinking water supply.

He also asked the civic body to take up the repair and maintenance work of the Western and Eastern express highways.