Mumbai (PTI): In response to the collapse of a 35-foot-tall statue of Shivaji Maharaj in Sindhudurg, Maharashtra, the state government has announced plans to construct a new, 60-foot-tall statue at the same location. The project, estimated to cost Rs 20 crore, is expected to be completed within six months.
The previous statue, unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in December 2023, collapsed during a storm in August. The incident sparked controversy, with opposition parties criticizing the government’s decision to install the statue in Sindhudurg and questioning the quality of the construction.
The state’s Public Works Department had raised concerns about rust on the statue before its collapse. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde attributed the collapse to strong winds but faced criticism for claiming the statue was designed and constructed by the Indian Navy.
The new statue will be significantly larger than its predecessor and feature improved engineering, installation, and maintenance measures. The government hopes to avoid a similar incident by ensuring the highest quality standards in the construction process.
