Road transport requires visionary approach

It is heartening to learn that basic facilities such as toilets, petrol pumps, and food malls will soon be available along the Samruddhi Mahamarg. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has directed the Maharashtra State Road Development Corporation to appoint consultants to set up these essential amenities along the route. This move should help stem commuter criticism about the current lack of such facilities on the expressway.

These amenities are not luxuries or frills; they are necessities aimed at preventing driver fatigue and reducing the risk of accidents. Fadnavis rightly suggested that while constructing any road in the future, an ecosystem should be developed in the surrounding area to support commuters’ needs.

This point is especially important as experts have highlighted the rise of residential projects, particularly high-rise towers, without adequate supporting infrastructure. Where is the ecosystem to support these developments? We need a holistic, comprehensive approach to infrastructure, ensuring that adjunct facilities are built alongside core projects.

Travelers to the West often experience highways and expressways equipped with toilets, basic stores, food and drink kiosks, or even malls conveniently located en route. Unfortunately, this is not yet the case here. Many stretches of roads lack toilets, causing discomfort and distress, and causing potential travelers to hesitate or even cancel road trips altogether.

People traveling with senior citizens, in particular, think twice before using routes that lack basic amenities. This underscores the importance of setting deadlines not only for road construction projects but also for the development of all supporting infrastructure.

A visionary approach is needed when shaping the road transport of the future. Beyond superior road quality, lighting, good signage, visibility, and safety warnings, we must also prioritize restrooms, food facilities, and fuel stops along the way.

Such a comprehensive plan makes the project complete, focusing not just on the vehicle or the road itself but also on the human factor—closing the loop for a safer and more comfortable commute for all.
https://www.mid-day.com/news/opinion/article/road-transport-requires-visionary-approach-23597113

Maha CM Devendra Fadnavis, Union Minister Gadkari Attend RSS Centenary Wearing Sangh Uniform | VIDEO

Nagpur: Union Minister Nitin Gadkari and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis were seen at the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) centenary celebrations today in Nagpur, wearing the traditional RSS uniform. The duo stood alongside thousands of swayamsevaks as they recited the Sangh Prarthana at the organization’s grand Vijayadashami event.

The ceremony, held at the Reshimbagh ground, drew prominent dignitaries including RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat, former President Ram Nath Kovind (the chief guest), and leaders from across the country. In his address, Bhagwat emphasised themes of self-reliance and the spirit of indigenous development, urging that dependence should not become a compulsion.

During the event, a ceremonial Shastra Puja (worship of weapons) was performed. Both traditional arms and replicas of modern tools like Pinaka rockets and drones were displayed, symbolizing a blend of heritage and modern challenges. In tribute to RSS founder Dr. K. B. Hedgewar, Kovind and Bhagwat offered floral respects.

For Gadkari and Fadnavis, wearing the RSS uniform was more than a symbolic gesture; it marked their participation in organizational traditions visibly. In video footage circulating online, Fadnavis and other Maharashtra leaders can be seen standing in perfect discipline, pledging in the Sangh garb alongside swayamsevaks.

In Nagpur, the significance of Vijayadashami is deepened by the convergence of two parallel traditions: the RSS’s annual Vijayadashami celebration, and the justice and equality movement led by Dr. B. R. Ambedkar, whose mass conversion to Buddhism at Deekshabhoomi in 1956 also occurred on Dussehra. The city thus transforms into a melting pot of spiritual, cultural, and social expressions.

Against this backdrop, the RSS’s 100-year celebration acquired additional resonance, reinforcing traditions and signaling that its identity remains intertwined with the festival’s message of victory, discipline, and renewal.

To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai and surrounding regions, visit: [https://budgetproperties.in/](https://budgetproperties.in/)
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maha-cm-devendra-fadnavis-union-minister-gadkari-attend-rss-centenary-wearing-sangh-uniform-video

Maharashtra CM Fadnavis Hopes Navi Mumbai Airport Will Be Named After Late Leader D. B. Patil

**CM Fadnavis Hopes Navi Mumbai International Airport Will Be Named After Late Leader D. B. Patil**

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has expressed optimism that the upcoming Navi Mumbai International Airport will be named in honor of the late leader D. B. Patil from the P&W party. Recently, the state government sent a formal proposal to the Union government to endorse this naming.

“I am confident that the Union government views the proposal positively and that the process is currently underway,” said CM Fadnavis. “I believe we can name the Navi Mumbai airport after D. B. Patil.”

**Naming Issue Sparks Local Protests**

However, the naming decision has become a political flashpoint within Navi Mumbai. Communities directly affected by the airport’s development—particularly the Agri-Koli population—have been advocating strongly for the airport to bear the name of their leader, D. B. Patil.

In recent weeks, these demands have been made visible through various rallies and protests. Notably, a bike rally led by NCP MP Suresh Mhatre was organized to highlight the community’s call for recognition.

**Remembering D. B. Patil’s Legacy**

D. B. Patil was a veteran leader known for his unwavering advocacy for project-affected people (PAPs). He earned widespread respect for his relentless efforts to ensure fair compensation for lands acquired during Navi Mumbai’s development.

One of his landmark achievements was the establishment of the 12.5% developed land scheme for PAPs, a milestone that continues to benefit many families.

As discussions continue, the proposal to name the airport after D. B. Patil remains a symbol of the broader struggle for justice and recognition among Navi Mumbai’s affected communities.
https://www.freepressjournal.in/mumbai/maharashtra-cm-fadnavis-hopes-navi-mumbai-airport-will-be-named-after-late-leader-d-b-patil