The forest department’s relocation efforts at Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary (BWS) in Khanapur taluk have hit a roadblock, as residents of Amagaon village have laid down several conditions before agreeing to move. The matter has also taken a political turn, with local Congress leaders supporting the villagers’ demands.
After successfully relocating several families from Talewadi earlier this year, the department had shifted its focus to Amagaon. Initially, a few households consented to relocate, prompting officials to start the process. Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan had instructed the local tahsildar to prepare a detailed report. However, following recent developments, most families have now refused to accept the compensation package, calling it inadequate.
Bhimgad Wildlife Sanctuary comprises 13 villages with about 754 families, all slated for eventual relocation. In May, 27 families from Talewadi were shifted successfully, and Minister Eshwar Khandre distributed compensation cheques. Under the current policy, each voluntarily relocated family is entitled to ₹15 lakh, ₹10 lakh upfront, and the remaining ₹5 lakh upon proper utilisation of the first instalment.
According to the 2011 Census, Amagaon has 78 households with 378 residents. Villagers claim the ₹15 lakh package is insufficient and are demanding housing, road connectivity, and electricity at the new site before agreeing to move.
Congress leader Suresh Jadhav said, “We met the villagers at the direction of former MLA Anjali Nimbalkar. They are not against relocation but want basic facilities assured along with compensation. We will convey their concerns to Anjali Nimbalkar.”
Range Forest Officer Nadaf confirmed that talks are ongoing with the villagers and that efforts are being made to reach a mutually acceptable solution.
