A major infrastructure project for the Hubballi-Dharwad region is finally moving forward after significant delays. The Devaraj Urs Truck Terminal Limited has officially approved the design map for a proposed new truck terminal, paving the way for the tender process to begin imminently.
Project Details and Land Allocation
A substantial land parcel measuring 59 acres and 26 guntas has been identified for the terminal at Anchatageri village, near Hubballi city. However, a portion of this land, specifically 9 acres and 35 guntas, has been marked as encroached. The corporation's plan is to develop the terminal on the remaining, clear land to avoid further delays. The initial obstacle of shelter homes on the proposed site has been addressed by deciding to exclude the encroached area from development plans.
Long Road to Approval
The journey to this point has been protracted. The Hubballi Dharwad Urban Development Authority (HDUDA) was tasked with preparing the design map, which was done by its Urban Planning department. The Terminal Corporation submitted an application for land use change a full year ago. HDUDA Chairperson Shakir Sanadi confirmed that with the recent approval of HDUDA's design plan, swift project implementation is now anticipated.
Gaibusab Honnyal, President of the North Karnataka Lorry Owners Association, highlighted the long-standing demand. A proposal was first submitted to Chief Minister HD Kumaraswamy during his initial term, identifying land near Anchatageri. "The fight for the truck terminal has been ongoing since then," Honnyal stated, emphasizing the recognized need for a well-equipped terminal for the twin cities.
Expected Impact and Next Steps
The primary benefit of this terminal is expected to be a significant reduction in traffic congestion within Hubballi-Dharwad. Long-distance trucks will be able to enter the city at night for loading and unloading operations, parking at the terminal during the day. This will streamline logistics and ease daytime traffic pressure.
Currently, aside from a large nameplate erected at the entrance, no physical work has begun on the site. All attention is now on the tender process, which is slated to start within days. Once contractors are finalized, construction can commence, turning the long-held plan into a reality and enhancing the region's transport and economic connectivity.