The estimated cost of the Nagpur-Goa Shaktipeeth Expressway has risen by over Rs 12,000 crore due to a change in alignment following sustained opposition from farmers in Kolhapur and other districts.

The total cost of the project is now expected to be around Rs 96,000 crore, with the highway’s length increasing from 802 km to 856 km and spanning 13 districts and 395 villages. Originally announced in March 2023 by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, the project faced resistance during land acquisition in 2024, particularly in Kagal and Hatkanangle talukas, as farmers questioned the need for another road between Nagpur and Goa. After the Mahayuti government returned to power, the alignment was altered to accommodate local concerns, and land acquisition is now being expedited. CM Fadnavis instructed officials to complete the process promptly with the support of local governance and dialogue with farmers.

Commenting on the revised costs, Anil Kumar Gaikwad, MD of MSRDC, said, “With the length of the highway increasing by 54 km, we will have to spend more on land acquisition, construction and allied work. As per the revised estimate, the project will cost between Rs 95,000 crore and 96,000 crore.” The state government will review the revised proposal before granting approval.