Corporator Reshma Parvez Bairakdar of Ward 17, Belagavi City Corporation (BCC), has proposed setting up a food court at the historic Belagavi Fort premises, modeled on the popular Tinisu Katte in the Belagavi South constituency. The idea was put forward during the corporation’s council meeting on Wednesday.
Bairakdar noted that thousands visit Fort Lake every evening, with footfall rising sharply on weekends. “Visitors enjoy boating and other activities here. Adding a dedicated food court with multiple cuisine options would make it a complete family outing spot,” she said. She also highlighted that four food outlets previously operating at the lake were demolished some time ago.
She suggested that the project could be supported through the BCC’s enterprise fund. Responding to the proposal, BCC Commissioner Shubha B and city engineer Laxmi Nippanikar confirmed that the earlier outlets were removed because they were constructed over a stormwater drain. “The tender process for building four new food outlets is already underway, and work will begin shortly,” the commissioner informed.
Nippanikar added that ₹8 crore has been sanctioned for the lake’s development under the AMRUT-2 scheme of the central government. However, she clarified that the funds are strictly for lake protection work, including retaining walls and paver installation. “AMRUT-2 funds cannot be used for structures or revenue-generating facilities,” she said.
