In a major boost to tourism and urban development, Belagavi’s iconic Fort Lake is set for a ₹9.2 crore facelift under the Central government’s Amrut Yojana. The project aims to transform the lake into a vibrant recreational and cultural hub, enhancing its accessibility and appeal.
Chief Secretary Shalini Rajaneesh, who served as Belagavi’s Deputy Commissioner from 2005 to 2007 and played a key role in the city’s first historic legislature session in 2006, has been instrumental in shaping the vision for this redevelopment. During her visit to Belagavi in December 2024, she proposed integrating an Urban Forest concept within the lake premises.
Originally developed during the 2011 World Kannada Meet, Fort Lake was under the Minor Irrigation Department before being handed over to the Belagavi City Corporation in 2020. Many of these amenities have remained underutilized despite featuring a walking track, boating facilities, a laser tech park, and water fountains. The upcoming revamp will ensure these facilities are fully operational while adding new attractions such as landscaping, an open-air theatre, high-mast lighting, and improved recreational spaces.
Deputy Commissioner (Administration) Laxmi Nippanikar confirmed that project estimation and planning are in progress, with final approval expected soon. Fort Lake is one of four lakes, including Kanabaragi Lake, slated for development under the Amrut Yojana.
With these upgrades, Fort Lake is poised to become a premier tourist destination, offering a blend of nature, leisure, and cultural significance.
