• Source:JND
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Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway Update: The construction of the much-awaited Varanasi-Kolkata Expressway in Jharkhand's Chatra district is likely to commence soon. While the Northern Forest Division has already given clearance for the construction, the National Highway Authority of India (NHAI) is also likely to receive approval from the Southern Forest Division in the upcoming weeks. The authority stated that it has sought acquisition of 342 hectares of forest land in the region, adding that the compensation has almost been distributed to affected landowners. The expressway is expected to provide convenience to thousands of commuters by cutting the travel time and reducing the traffic congestion.

While providing details, the officials stated that out of the total compensation amount of Rs 204 crore, the authority has already distributed Rs 215 crore. Apart from this, the Northern Forest Division has also demanded compensation of Rs 43 crore from the NHAI. Rahul Kumar Meena, officer in the forest department, stated that while Rs 29 crore has been demanded for forest compensation, the rest of the amount is needed for the forest land.

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The officials further stated that apart from improving the connectivity, the project will also give a boost to the financial activities. Earlier last month, the NHAI stated that while 240 hectares of land have been demanded from the Southern Forest Division, the Northern Forest Division will provide 102 hectares of land for the project.

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The officials from the forest department stated that the construction work for the project is likely to begin in the upcoming months. "The Stage 1 process with the Northern Forest Division has been completed. An allocation request for compensation has been made. The Southern Forest Division's process is in its final stages. With approval from the Union Ministry of Forests and Climate Change, the contractor can begin work," Mukesh Kumar, Southern Forest Division Officer, was quoted as saying by the Jagran.Com.

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