Gandheli village near city on the cusp of development

Lokmat News Network

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Located just 8–9 km from Deolai Chowk and nestled amid hills, Gandheli village is emerging as a preferred destination due to its serene environment and improved connectivity. With the Beed Bypass and Dhule–Solapur Highway nearby, the village has attracted attention from the construction and industrial sectors, pushing land prices to several lakhs per acre.

The ISO-certified gram panchayat area has witnessed multiple construction ventures, a Mahanand dairy project, and educational initiatives, accelerating its development. However, illegal mineral excavation in the surrounding hill ranges has raised environmental concerns. The historic Bagh Talav, dating back to the Nizam era, continues to supply water to Gandheli and eight neighbouring villages. With a population of around 5,000, agriculture and dairy farming remain the primary sources of livelihood. Despite the growth, the absence of higher education facilities forces students to travel to the city. The lack of public transport further adds to residents’ difficulties, as no bus service currently connects the village, compelling dependence on private vehicles.

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Voices from the village

“College-level education within the village will benefit local students,” said Rahul Sawant, former sarpanch.

“Under the BSDF scheme, plantation work is underway near Bagh Talav. Underground drainage lines, internal roads, and crematorium works are also in progress through the panchayat samiti,” said S.K. Kharat, gramsevak. “If the government develops more amenities around Bagh Talav, it can attract tourists from across and beyond the district,” said Sarpanch Shaikh Mannu. “Municipal corporation or MSRTC buses should be started for villagers commuting to the city,” said resident Kakasaheb Jagdale.