In a significant development for Belagavi's infrastructure, the state cabinet has finally granted administrative approval for the city's first-ever flyover. The long-pending proposal, which received the green light during the winter session on Thursday, promises to address chronic traffic issues in the city's heart.
Project Details and Approved Plan
The Public Works Department (PWD) will undertake the construction of this Elevated Corridor at an estimated cost of Rs 275.5 crore. The approved stretch will run 2.03 kilometers long, connecting Hotel Sankam to Dharmaveer Sambhaji Maharaj Chowk. This route is strategically designed to decongest central Belagavi by bypassing key and busy junctions including:
- Ashok Circle
- Sangoli Rayanna Circle
- Rani Channamma Circle
The project has been championed by District Minister Satish Jarkiholi, who also holds the PWD portfolio. His persistent initiative has now culminated in formal cabinet clearance, paving the way for physical work to begin.
Clarity Awaited on Final Scope
While the administrative approval is a major milestone, some ambiguity regarding the project's final length remains. The original Detailed Project Report (DPR) by Hubballi-based VLS Consultants had proposed a more extensive 3.6-kilometer flyover for the same route, with the total corridor extending to approximately 4.5 km when including service and connecting roads. The cabinet's decision to approve a reduced length of 2.03 km means the exact scope will become clearer during the subsequent detailed implementation and tendering stages.
Path Forward and Implementation
Interestingly, no specific budgetary allocation for this flyover was made in the recent state budget. However, preliminary survey and design work had already begun on Minister Jarkiholi's recommendation. With the crucial administrative approval now secured, the project is expected to move swiftly into the tendering phase, with construction anticipated to start in the near future. This Belagavi flyover is set to become a landmark infrastructure project, offering much-needed relief from the city's growing traffic snarls.
