Mall Remains Vacant
Davangere
The plan by Davangere Smart City Limited to lease out the 1.3 lakh sq ft commercial space at the new bus stand for a shopping mall and multiplex has struggled to take off.
Built at a cost of ₹130 crore, the bus terminal’s commercial complex has remained vacant for over a year since its inauguration. Despite six attempts to invite tenders, the response has been minimal. Initially, KSRTC expected a monthly revenue of ₹59 lakh, which was later reduced to ₹55 lakh due to lack of interest. Now, the corporation has decided to further lower the expected revenue to ₹41.5 lakh.
The facility includes a multiplex with three screens—two smaller halls with 175 seats each and a larger hall with 300 seats—along with parking across the first floor, second floor, and 17,000 sq ft in the cellar for tenants’ customers and staff.
KSRTC divisional traffic officer Fakruddin noted that large companies usually win such tenders and then lease the spaces to smaller operators, but not a single bidder has shown interest so far. Businessman Sachin explained that the new terminal is not centrally located, the city has not adapted to mall culture, and nearby commercial development is limited, making it difficult to attract tenants.
KSRTC Davangere divisional controller Shivakumaraiah said it was too early to comment but expressed hope that the space would be occupied soon. He added that the project is a joint venture between Davangere Smart City Limited and KSRTC, and officials are preparing for the seventh tender process to fill the commercial area.
This highlights the challenges of promoting commercial ventures in emerging urban hubs without strong footfall or supporting infrastructure.
