Citizens Oppose Transfer of Three Key Cantonment Roads to MES

Strong opposition is emerging among citizens over a proposal to transfer three key roads under the jurisdiction of the Belagavi Cantonment Board to the Military Engineering Services (MES).

The proposal, which was first considered in 2022, was opposed by Cantonment Board nominated member Sudhir Tupekar, following which it was put on hold. The issue has now resurfaced on the Board’s agenda, prompting renewed concerns over public access and traffic movement.

The roads proposed to be transferred to the MES are:

• Albert Ekka Road, between Raigad Gate and Jinji Gate
• Smart Road, between Harshan Enclave Gate and Ramghat Road
• Queen’s Garden Road, between Sharkat Park and Queen’s Garden

In exchange, Gymkhana Road, between Shaurya Chowk and Gandhi Chowk, which is currently under MES control, is proposed to be handed over to the Cantonment Board.

Although the proposal was listed for discussion at the Board’s previous meeting, no detailed deliberation took place. Tupekar sought a separate discussion on the matter at the next meeting, and the decision has been kept pending.

The Cantonment Board has also invited objections from the public. The proposal could be reconsidered if a significant number of objections are received.

Residents are particularly concerned that transferring the roads to the MES could result in restrictions on civilian movement or even the closure of certain routes. Since the roads are important links for daily commuters, any restrictions could increase traffic pressure on alternative routes.

The proposal also involves changes in the classification of the roads from ‘A Land’ to ‘C Land’ and vice versa, which could alter their administrative control and conditions of use.

Tupekar said the proposal should not be considered without examining its impact on public access and traffic.

“I had opposed this issue when it first came up in 2022. We remain opposed to the proposal now as well. A detailed discussion on the matter is scheduled for the next meeting. Citizens should register their objections in large numbers.”

The issue is expected to come up for detailed discussion at the next Cantonment Board meeting, with public objections likely to play an important role in determining the future of the three roads.