Adani’s ‘Power’ vs. Public Safety – Who Wins?
• Adani’s Cable Chaos: Highway Becomes a Deathtrap!
• Wada-Bhiwandi Road: A Death Trap in the Making!
• Adani’s ‘Power’ Reigns as Public Works Department Turns a Blind Eye!
Unmesh Gujarathi
Sorouts News Exclusive
The construction of a power house by the Adani Group in the jurisdiction of Kondhale and Usar gram panchayats in Wada Taluka has sparked controversy. To facilitate this project, a 12-kilometer-long power cable is being laid from the Bhaveghar feeder of the electricity distribution company. However, reports indicate that this work is being carried out in blatant violation of regulations, prompting the Public Works Department (PWD) to issue an immediate stop-work order.
Despite the official directive, work continues, leaving the Wada-Bhiwandi-Manor highway in a hazardous state. Large portions of the road have been dug up, making it extremely dangerous for commuters. The highway has practically turned into a death trap, yet while Adani flaunts its ‘power,’ the PWD remains passive, much like the mythical Dhritarashtra.
• A Road Filled with Pits, Accidents Waiting to Happen
The ongoing cable-laying work has resulted in deep potholes along the Wada-Bhiwandi-Manor highway, putting thousands of motorists at risk. With the Adani power house project requiring a 12-kilometer-long cable, the highway’s condition has worsened drastically. Local residents have expressed outrage, holding the PWD responsible and warning of an imminent protest if the unauthorized excavation is not stopped immediately.
Regulatory Violations Ignored
– Adani Electric Infra Ltd. was granted permission to lay power cables along the Bhiwandi-Wada road, specifically between Kanchad Phata and Uchat Phata.
– As per the approved guidelines, the cable was to be placed 15 meters away from the center of the road, but instead, it has been laid only 6 to 8 meters away, violating safety norms.
– On March 10, PWD’s Sub-Divisional Officer P.R. Chavan issued a letter ordering an immediate halt to the work, yet ground reports suggest that the excavation continues unabated.
This situation raises serious concerns about governance and accountability. With public safety at stake, will the authorities finally take action, or will this highway of death remain a glaring example of negligence? Stay tuned with Sorouts News for further updates.
Controversies Surrounding the Adani Group in India and Abroad
• Stock Market Manipulation Allegations
One of the biggest controversies surrounding the Adani Group emerged in 2023 when U.S.-based short-seller Hindenburg Research accused the conglomerate of stock manipulation and accounting fraud. The report claimed that Adani inflated share prices through offshore shell companies, leading to a massive decline in its market value. While the Adani Group denied these allegations, the controversy triggered investigations by Indian regulators and raised concerns about corporate governance.
• Environmental Concerns and Land Disputes
Adani’s infrastructure and mining projects have faced significant opposition due to environmental concerns. In India, the group’s coal mining projects in Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand have led to protests from tribal communities over deforestation and land acquisition. Similarly, in Australia, the Adani Carmichael coal mine project faced global criticism for its potential impact on the Great Barrier Reef and its contribution to climate change. Environmental activists and indigenous groups have repeatedly challenged the company’s projects in courts and public campaigns.
• Allegations of Favoritism and Political Ties
The Adani Group has often been accused of benefiting from close ties with the Indian government. Critics argue that the company has received preferential treatment in securing large infrastructure contracts, port deals, and energy projects. Reports have suggested that regulatory approvals for Adani projects have been fast-tracked despite environmental and financial concerns. These allegations have fueled debates on crony capitalism in India.
Also Read: Atrocity Case Filed Against 158, Including College Principal.
• Human Rights and Labor Issues
Internationally, Adani has faced criticism for alleged human rights violations. Reports indicate that the company’s projects in countries like Myanmar and Australia have raised concerns about labor rights, displacement of local communities, and unsafe working conditions. In Myanmar, Adani Ports was scrutinized for its business dealings with a military-controlled firm, leading to pressure from human rights organizations to cut ties.
• Financial Transparency and Debt Burden
Concerns about Adani’s financial practices have also been raised due to its high debt levels. Analysts and investors have questioned whether the conglomerate’s rapid expansion in sectors like ports, airports, and green energy is sustainable. Credit rating agencies and financial watchdogs have flagged risks related to Adani’s debt exposure, especially after the Hindenburg report intensified scrutiny.
Despite these controversies, the Adani Group continues to expand its global footprint, investing in infrastructure, energy, and digital sectors. However, regulatory investigations and public scrutiny remain significant challenges for the conglomerate.