Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi recently addressed the Legislative Council, shedding light on the delayed completion of the Belgaum-Goa National Highway. Jarkiholi explained that the forest department’s regulations present challenges in executing development projects in Khanapur taluk, an area surrounded by dense forests. Despite the government’s efforts to promote overall development in the taluk, the forest department’s rules have become significant obstacles, especially in road construction in the reserve forest area.
Khanapur taluka, the most neglected and underdeveloped region in Belgaum district, suffers from poorly maintained roads. Even after 76 years of independence, some villages in the jungle region still lack proper road infrastructure.
Both the state and Belgaum Panaji national highways, passing through the taluk, are in dire condition. Intended to facilitate smooth transportation, these highways have become life-threatening for commuters due to their deteriorated state. Potholes and damaged sections are visible, causing inconvenience for motorists, elderly individuals, pregnant women, and disabled individuals. Some villages in the area remain completely cut off from the outside world due to the absence of passable roads, with the Belgaum to Goa road and Khanapur to Nandgad road particularly affected.
In a Legislative Council question and answer session, Member of the Legislative Council Dr. Talwar Sabanna raised concerns about this issue to the Minister of Public Works.
In response, Public Works Minister Satish Jarkiholi announced the successful awarding of the contract for the construction of the National Highway from Belgaum to Goa. However, the project has faced challenges due to sections falling within the reserved forest department’s jurisdiction. Regulations imposed by the forest department have posed obstacles to carrying out necessary road work.
Despite these hurdles, the Public Works Department has compiled a comprehensive list of essential tasks required to maintain the highway’s optimal condition. The estimated cost for these works is Rs. 58.641 crore, submitted to the National Highways Authority’s headquarters for approval.
