In a determined effort to advance regional development, the newly elected Member of Parliament from Belagavi Jagadish Shettar has declared the completion of the Belagavi-Kittur-Dharwad new railway line a top priority. The project, however, faces significant legal and technical obstacles, particularly in the realm of land acquisition. Undeterred, the MP has pledged to resolve these issues, aiming to enhance the transportation network with additional train services to Belagavi. His vision extends to transforming Hubballi and Dharwad into a trio of interconnected cities along with Belagavi.
The newly elected Member of Parliament has pledged to transform Belagavi Airport into an international hub. In a press conference on Thursday, he addressed inquiries regarding the previous BJP government’s proposal to build an international airport at Kittur, situated between Belagavi and Dharwad. He dismissed the idea, stating that Belagavi Airport is a more viable option for international expansion.
He outlined his strategy to meet with the civil aviation minister and officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to discuss the airport’s development. Additionally, he plans to engage with various airlines to establish new flight routes from Belagavi. Furthermore, he intends to collaborate with the Belagavi Chamber of Commerce and Industries (BCCI) and local intellectuals to create a vision document for the city’s growth.
The former Chief Minister expressed his commitment to driving significant progress in Belagavi, stating, “You will witness a new Shettar in the days ahead. I have ambitious plans for the city’s development and seek the community’s support.” Emphasizing Belagavi’s importance as the state’s second capital, he vowed to elevate its status and secure necessary approvals from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other central ministers.
Industries: Boosting Economic Growth
In addition to infrastructure improvements, the MP is committed to attracting diverse industries to Belagavi. He envisions bringing IT companies to the city and establishing textile park-like industries in rural areas. Highlighting the Special Investment Regions Act of the central government, which provides incentives for industrial growth in underdeveloped regions, he noted Gujarat’s successful implementation as a model. He expressed confidence that a similar notification in Karnataka would encourage more industries to invest locally, promising to work towards this objective.
Belagavi IT Park: Resolving Land Issues
Addressing the issue of the 700 acres of revenue land still held by the defence department despite the lease period’s completion, the MP intends to meet with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. He aims to reclaim this land, which is crucial for the development of IT industries, given its strategic location near the city. He also suggested the possibility of proposing alternative land to the Centre, acknowledging the unique nature of this situation.
A Vision for the Future
Former Chief Minister Shettar outlined a transformative vision for Belagavi’s future. Emphasizing his aspirations for the city’s development, he called for the cooperation of its residents. Referring to Belagavi as the second capital of the state, Shettar underscored the importance of prioritizing the city’s progress. He committed to working tirelessly, including meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi to ensure the approval of pending projects. With strong connections to several central ministers, Shettar vowed to leverage these relationships to facilitate Belagavi’s development.
We need more visionaries to follow through with their promises.
I have the vision document ready to submit for the development of the region, including India.
I will submit the document to Mr. Shettar and to BCCI.