Malingaraya Pujar, CH NEWS
The Shirahatti Town Panchayat in Gadag district is struggling to function from a dilapidated British-era sub-jail building, raising questions over when the civic body will get a proper office of its own.
The town panchayat had earlier functioned from a small building near Basaveshwara Circle. However, due to lack of space, it was shifted to the old sub-jail building on the outskirts of the town around three years ago. The structure is now in poor condition, with rainwater leaking through the roof even during light showers. A tarpaulin sheet has been placed over the building as a temporary measure. Staff members are reportedly struggling to protect property documents, official records and other important files from water damage.
Ironically, funds have already been sanctioned for a new building. Around Rs 1.55 crore has been allocated under the fourth phase of the Urban Upgrading project. The tender process has also been completed and a work order issued to the contractor. Property No. 149/2 has been identified as the site for the proposed building.
However, the project has reportedly hit a roadblock over ownership of the identified land. The site is said to belong to the Sports Department, leading to confusion among authorities over its ownership and legal status. Contractors are reportedly reluctant to begin construction despite receiving the work order, fearing future legal complications.
Residents have questioned why construction has not begun despite the availability of funds and completion of the tender process. They have urged the government and concerned departments to resolve the land issue immediately and start construction.
With the existing building posing serious challenges to staff and public records, residents are demanding that authorities act quickly and provide the Shirahatti Town Panchayat with a safe and permanent office.
Public outrage
Despite having both money and permission, the project has been shelved just on the pretext of land dispute between departments. The people’s representatives and officials, who should be working with a development vision, are turning a blind eye to this plight. The public is expressing strong anger that the district administration and the concerned minister should immediately intervene, resolve the land dispute with the sports department and construct a new, well-equipped building for the Shirahatti town panchayat.
