Belagavi Lok Sabha MP Jagadish Shettar on Tuesday reviewed the progress of various infrastructure and development works being undertaken by the Central Government agencies, including the Railway Department, National Highways Authority of India (NHAI), and Airport authorities, in the presence of Belagavi Deputy Commissioner Mohammed Roshan.
National Highways Projects Reviewed
Halaga–Machhe Bypass
Officials informed the MP that on the 9-km Halaga–Machhe bypass stretch, asphalting work on nearly 4 km has already been completed, while service road construction is currently in progress. The remaining road works are expected to be completed shortly.
Belagavi–Hunagund–Raichur Highway
The progress of the 43.8-km road project under Package-1 was also reviewed. Officials from the Bagalkote Special Land Acquisition office informed the meeting that land acquisition for nearly 37 km has been completed and compensation amounting to around Rs 270 crore has already been distributed to farmers. The entire process is expected to be completed by February 2027.
For Package-2, involving around 46.1 km of road work, officials stated that nearly Rs 2 crore has already been paid as compensation to farmers, while land acquisition for approximately 38 km has been completed. Certain complications in the acquisition process were brought to the notice of the MP, and discussions were held to resolve them.
Shettar also directed NHAI officials to construct service roads and cattle crossings as demanded by farmers from Naganur and Bhavihal villages in Bailhongal taluk to facilitate safe movement of livestock.
The Deputy Commissioner also informed the meeting that the six-laning work on the Belagavi–Sankeshwar highway is nearly complete.
Railway Department
The MP reviewed the progress of the proposed new Belagavi–Kittur–Dharwad railway line project. Discussions were held regarding the acquisition of nearly 1,190 acres of land required for the project. It was stated that the PAC has already approved acquisition of around 407 acres, but the State Government has yet to release the required funds, which could delay the progress of the railway line project.
Shettar also sought an update on the construction of the second lane near LC No. 381 in Tilakwadi and instructed railway officials to commence the work at the earliest.
Airport Development
During the meeting, airport officials informed that land from the Air Force is required for the construction of a parallel taxi track as part of the expansion and development plans for Belagavi Airport.