32,490 Trees At Risk? Maharashtra’s Saidongar Project Sparks Row

A proposed 3,000 MW pumped-storage hydropower project in Maharashtra’s Raigad district has triggered environmental concerns and local opposition. The Saidongar-I project, being developed by Torrent Power, is facing scrutiny over the proposed felling of 32,490 trees and the diversion of 233 hectares of forest land. Villagers fear losing access to forests, grazing areas and resources that support their livelihoods. The issue has also sparked a political row, with Aaditya Thackeray and Raj Thackeray visiting the village. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis has defended the project, while Torrent Power says it falls outside Bhimashankar Sanctuary’s notified eco-sensitive zone.