The long-awaited Belagavi Ring Road project, aimed at easing the city’s traffic congestion, has hit a major roadblock due to delays in obtaining forest clearance. As per a news report, the delay stems from the Karnataka Forest Department’s inaction in responding to the Union Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC)’s queries.
The Centre had greenlit the project in three phases, with ₹1,622 crore allocated for Phase I — a 34.5-km ring road around Belagavi. Union Minister for Road Transport and Highways, Nitin Gadkari, laid the foundation stone in February 2024, calling it a vital boost to the region’s infrastructure.
However, part of the proposed alignment passes through 27.3 hectares of reserve forest across villages such as Honaga, Kakati, Sonatti, Kanabargi, and Kalakhamb. Following a site visit, Deputy Conservator of Forests (DCF) Maria Christu Raja D submitted his report in August 2024. The Karnataka Forest Department later sent a proposal for forest land diversion to the Centre in January 2025.
Complications arose after Bengaluru-based environmental activist Ramprasad questioned the accuracy of the DCF’s report, alleging that certain forest encroachments were left out. Citing satellite images, he flagged discrepancies that cast doubt on the report’s reliability.
In response, the MoEFCC asked the state government to provide a factual verification report by June 10, 2025. That deadline has passed with no submission, resulting in the forest clearance process being stalled.
When approached for comment, DCF Maria Christu Raja D chose not to respond.
The delay has drawn sharp criticism. Belagavi South MLA Abhay Patil, a long-time advocate for the project, expressed frustration. “We’ve worked hard to get central approval and funds. The inefficiency of forest officials is now jeopardising the entire project. If the DCF doesn’t file the report within 15 days, I will stage a protest outside his office,” he said.
With urban traffic pressures mounting, the indefinite delay in this key road project has triggered concern among local citizens, civic authorities, and business communities.
