The long-pending Belagavi–Dharwad railway line via Kittur has received a major boost, with the Karnataka government releasing ₹70 crore towards land acquisition compensation. The district administration has begun transferring the compensation in phases directly to the bank accounts of eligible farmers.
The release of funds marks significant progress for the ambitious 73-km railway project, which had faced delays due to the land acquisition process and pending compensation.
Farmers affected by the project had repeatedly sought timely and fair compensation for their acquired land. Several farmers’ organisations had also urged the government to protect the interests of landowners, many of whom are losing fertile agricultural land. With the funds now available, the administration has started the phased disbursement process.
“The ₹70 crore received from the government is being distributed to farmers in phases. The remaining compensation amount will also be available shortly, and all eligible landowners will receive their due compensation within a short period,” said Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan.
The Belagavi–Dharwad railway line via Kittur has been approved under a 50:50 cost-sharing model between the Central and Karnataka governments. Under this arrangement, the State government is responsible for land acquisition and meeting half of the project cost.
Initially estimated at around ₹927 crore, the project’s cost is expected to increase due to rising construction expenses, delays, and land acquisition costs.
The railway line requires land acquisition across several villages in Belagavi and Dharwad districts. Earlier this year, farmers from Idalhong, Nagenahalli, K.K. Koppa, Garlgunji, Nandihalli, and Halgimardi had opposed the proposed alignment and demanded an alternative route. Following discussions with the affected landowners, the administration continued with the acquisition process.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan said the railway line would be a key infrastructure project for North Karnataka. Once completed, it will provide a direct rail connection between Belagavi and Dharwad via Kittur, reducing travel time compared to the existing route through Londa. The alignment is also expected to be suitable for future high-speed services such as Vande Bharat trains.
The administration is now focusing on completing compensation payments and handing over the acquired land to the Railways so that construction can begin after the remaining formalities are completed.