The newly elected MP Jagadish Shettar has prioritized completing longstanding development projects in Belagavi, bringing satisfaction to his constituents. Essential projects such as the Belagavi-Dharwad new railway line via Kittur, the Belagavi Ring Road, and the Halaga-Macche Bypass Highway have faced significant delays primarily due to challenges with land acquisition. Shettar has acknowledged these projects and initiated efforts to address their issues.
Regarding the Belagavi-Dharwad railway line, it was a significant initiative championed by former MP Suresh Angadi. As Union Minister of State for Railways, Angadi successfully secured project approval and funding. However, following his unfortunate passing in 2020, the project encountered obstacles primarily related to land acquisition. The completion of this 73.1km railway line would stimulate industrial growth in both Belagavi and Dharwad districts.
Likewise, Suresh Angadi proposed the Belagavi Ring Road project, for which the central government allocated Rs 1,622 crore for a 34.5km 4/6 lane road. However, farmers in various villages have opposed the project due to issues related to land acquisition. Upon completion, the project is expected to significantly alleviate traffic congestion within the city. Additionally, it will establish direct connectivity between Belagavi Airport and the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha (SVS).
The construction of the Halaga-Macche Bypass Highway by the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) has encountered similar challenges since 2009. This bypass is a component of the central government’s ambitious Bharatmala project, linking the Belagavi-Panjim National Highway to the Pune-Bengaluru National Highway-4. Delays in the project have primarily stemmed from issues related to acquiring land.
A few days ago, MP Jagadish Shettar criticized officials of the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) and other relevant authorities for their prolonged delay in completing land acquisition for crucial central government projects. He also expressed disappointment over proceeding with the tender process without securing the necessary land.
“How can you initiate the tender process when the land is not yet secured or still awaiting acquisition? This is leading to contractors demanding penalties from the government due to delays in land handover, consequently delaying project commencement. This procedure is highly flawed,” expressed Shettar, emphasizing his dissatisfaction. He directed officials to promptly resolve the issues related to land acquisition.
In addition to these initiatives, Shettar’s commitment to upgrading Belagavi Airport to international status and expanding flight services has garnered approval from local industrialists. With his statement, “You will witness a transformed Jagadish Shettar from now on,” the 68-year-old has pivoted towards focusing on developmental politics.
