Asif (Raju) Sait, a Member of the Legislative Assembly, inaugurated the commencement of construction for a multi-level car parking facility in Bapat Galli, Belagavi, on Monday. The six-story structure is anticipated to accommodate 120 cars, aiming to alleviate congestion in the historic part of the city.
This initiative falls under the jurisdiction of the Smart City Scheme Limited, jointly undertaken by the State government and the municipal administration. The primary objective is to address traffic bottlenecks and enhance the convenience of local residents, as stated by the MLA.
The multi-level car parking and commercial development project at Bapat Galli is being executed on a Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) basis through a public-private partnership arrangement. Covering an area of 12 guntas, the project carries a budget of ₹6.5 crore and has been entrusted to BVG India Limited. Completion is anticipated within a two-year timeframe, with ground and first floors designated for retail shops, while the remaining five levels will be dedicated to vehicle parking, accommodating 30 vehicles per level.
However, it’s worth noting that the project has faced challenges related to cost and delays. Originally conceived in 2006, it failed to commence construction. In 2009, plans were considered under the AMRUT scheme, yet implementation remained elusive.
Mr. Sait expressed optimism that this time the project would progress earnestly and adhere to the planned schedule.