SASWAD, FRIDAY – The proposed Purandar Airport project has triggered strong opposition from local farmers, who launched a protest in Saswad this week. The strike reflects growing unrest over fears of displacement and loss of farmland, especially fig and custard apple orchards that form the backbone of the region’s horticulture economy.
Farmers gathered to condemn the government’s push for the Purandar Airport, accusing officials of ignoring ground realities and community concerns. “The government claims this airport will bring development, but for us, it means ruin,” said one protesting farmer. “Our orchards feed our families. If they take our land, what will we eat? Promises won’t fill our stomachs.”
Leaders Accuse Government of Apathy
Former Panchayat Samiti Education Extension Officer S. Memane criticized the administration’s approach, stating, “The government is hell-bent on pushing this project, no matter the cost to us. The farmers’ morale is shattered—they feel betrayed.”
The situation worsened as no government representative arrived to address the protesters, further straining relations. However, former Zilla Parishad member Datta Zurange visited the site and engaged in dialogue with the farmers, signaling some political support for their concerns.
Impact on Agriculture and Livelihoods
The Purandar Airport is expected to be developed on fertile agricultural land, which locals argue will destroy their means of income. With a high concentration of fruit orchards in the region, the airport threatens both the environment and the local economy.
The farmers’ resistance is rooted in the fear of irreversible damage to their land and lifestyle. “We are not against progress, but not at the cost of our survival,” said another protester.
A Growing Controversy
As the standoff intensifies, the Purandar Airport project has become a flashpoint between rural livelihoods and urban development. With no clear response from the authorities, the protest is turning into a broader movement against forced land acquisition.
- Pune Metro to Get Direct Airport Link as Kharadi Becomes Key Transport Hub
- “Pargaon Speaks: No Land, No Airport!,” — Farmers March to Pune Collectorate in Opposition
- City Rattled by Spike in Jewellery Thefts; Burglaries Reported Across Camp, Hadapsar, and Baner
- Bhimashankar Sugar Mill Credits ₹31.87 Crore to Farmers for 2024–25 Season
- Quick Loans, Big Traps: Fake Lending Apps Haunt Jobless Youth