The Belagavi Development Authority (BUDA) has unveiled a sweeping expansion blueprint to ease the mounting pressure on Belagavi city’s infrastructure and population density. A new township is in the works, and in a major first step, BUDA has notified the inclusion of 58 villages under its urban local planning area.
This move, backed by the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act of 1961 (Section 4A), marks the beginning of a bold vision to develop a modern, well-planned extension of Belagavi, potentially stretching up to 50 km from the city’s center by 2050. The urban sprawl of Belagavi is expected to encompass 150 to 180 sq. km within the next 25 years.
According to BUDA officials, the survey work has already commenced with an ambitious aim to develop mini-townships in all four directions of the city. The selected villages include Honaga, Kalakamba, Muchandi, Ashtagi, Nilaji, Mutaga, Sambra, Balekundri (K.H and B.K), Honnihala, Mavinakatti, and Kadoli among others—spanning a total of 58 settlements.
Honaga, Kalakamba, Muchandi, Ashte, Nilaji, Mutaga, Sambra, Balekundri, K.H, Balekundri B.K., Honnihala, Mavinakatti, Basarikatti, Mastamaradi, Kondasakoppa, Dhamane, Yallur, Yaramala, Kuttalawadi, Navage, Hangaraga, Kalholola, Sulaga, Gojaga, Mannur, Ambewadi (Jafarawadi), Alataga, Kadoli
These areas will now fall under BUDA’s jurisdiction for development permissions. All new construction activities—be it for residential, commercial, or industrial purposes—will require prior approval from the authority.
Master Plan in Motion
The master plan, already in its implementation phase, envisions integrated townships that include housing, public amenities, and industrial hubs. “This step is critical in preparing Belagavi for its future population and infrastructure needs,” a BUDA official said. “It will also significantly increase the land value for farmers and property owners in these regions.”
Rural Resistance Emerges
However, the move hasn’t been met with unanimous approval. Village administrations and local residents have voiced strong opposition to their inclusion in the BUDA planning zone. At the heart of their protest is the new mandate requiring a No Objection Certificate (NOC) and approved design for all new constructions—including homes, poultry farms, brick kilns, and small-scale industries.
Local gram panchayats have argued that such regulations would impose undue financial and procedural burdens on poor farmers, daily wage workers, and small entrepreneurs. “This will make it nearly impossible for ordinary villagers to build even a basic home,” said one village leader.
The opposition is urging the state government to withdraw the mandatory design approval clause, fearing it may disrupt traditional livelihoods and make housing unaffordable in rural belts.
What’s Next?
While BUDA remains committed to its vision of a structured and sustainable urban expansion, the growing unrest among rural communities poses a potential challenge. Negotiations and further stakeholder consultations may be necessary to address the villagers’ concerns and create a more inclusive development approach.
As Belagavi braces for its next phase of growth, the city stands at a critical juncture—balancing the promise of modernity with the preservation of rural livelihoods and autonomy.
When Governing Authority (within existing area) is failed to curb many illegal layouts which are on sale on ₹ 100 bond paper, expanding area under it’s jurisdiction have no value additional to city development. Help me to recall how many illegal dwelling units removed or stopped during construction within last 5 years by the Authority. How many CDP roads are developed as per Master Plan 2021. Moreover crying Panchayats never stopping clearing layouts with 15ft or 20ft roads which are not viable single vehicle to pass through.
Govering authority should ahead when it comes development but pathetically they reach to site after all illegal developments. It’s said that ROAD should be first but we have BUILDINGS first..! Moreover Govt is also supporting illegal development with launch of B- Khata or Akram-Sakram Schemes. Such Schemes questions the existance of Governing Authorities. Hopping for Smart moves for #SmartCity.
Plan for double roads with provision for slip roads, long radial roads, civic amenities, public spaces, parks, provision for electricity, water supply and sewerage system etc, well in advance and notify.
Delineate & freez existing village boundaries and development beyond that need to be regulated by BUDA.
Simple designs for villagers, within village limits and NOC should be issued within a week on automatic basis.
Dr Kummur R M
Bengaluru
27.4.2025
Need to maintain Village as a Village only
Environmental Benefits
– Conservation of natural resources
– Protection of ecosystems and wildlife habitats
– Maintenance of soil health and fertility
– Reduced pollution and greenhouse gas emissions
– Economic Benefits
– Increased crop yields and improved farm productivity
– Diversified income streams through sustainable agriculture practices
– Job creation and local economic growth
– Potential for eco-tourism and sustainable tourism initiatives
– Social Benefits
– Improved livelihoods for farmers and rural communities
– Preservation of traditional knowledge and cultural heritage
– Enhanced food security and nutrition
– Community engagement and cooperation
To achieve these benefits, village development initiatives can focus on:
-Sustainable Agriculture Practice
– Organic farming and permaculture
– Agroforestry and integrated pest management
– Conservation agriculture and crop rotation
– Biodiversity Conservation
– Protection of native crop and animal species
– Maintenance of ecosystem services and ecological balance
– Promotion of pollinators and beneficial insects
– Community Engagement and Education
– Training and capacity-building for farmers and community members
– Awareness-raising about the importance of biodiversity and sustainable agriculture
– Community-led planning and decision-making processes
By prioritizing biodiversity and sustainable agriculture, village development initiatives can contribute to a more resilient, productive, and environmentally conscious rural economy.