Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has announced the Karnataka government’s plan to open the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha in Belagavi to the public on weekends, aiming to attract tourists and generate revenue. This announcement came during the 50th Karnataka Golden Jubilee celebration and the honoring ceremony for the former Speaker of the Karnataka Legislature held on Tuesday.
Known for its architectural grandeur, the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha has faced criticism for being underutilized. Currently, it only hosts the state legislature’s winter session once a year. However, the government is determined to find ways to increase the building’s usage and justify its construction.
The government plans to convert the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha into a popular tourist destination by allowing public access on weekends. Designated photoshoot areas will be created within the building to enhance its appeal and attract visitors.
Beyond weekend public access, the government is exploring other ways to utilize the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha during non-legislative periods. These include:
Hosting state government committee meetings
Organizing regional gatherings
Conducting conferences with foreign delegations
Transforming into a Tourist Hub:
By opening its doors to the public and offering designated photoshoot areas, the government hopes to transform the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha into a captivating tourist attraction. This would not only generate revenue but also allow visitors to appreciate the building’s architectural beauty and historical significance.
The initiative has been met with mixed reactions. While some support the idea of increased public access and tourism potential, others remain skeptical about the practicality and cost-effectiveness of such a project. Only time will tell if the government’s plans will successfully transform the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha into a thriving tourist destination.