Belagavi
Union Minister of State for Railways, V Somanna, announced that the new Belagavi-Hubli railway line, a project initiated by the late MP Suresh Angadi, will be completed within the next two years. The project, which Somanna described as a gift from Prime Minister Narendra Modi to Belagavi, aims to enhance connectivity in the region.
Speaking to the media after a meeting with railway department officials and district administration at the Deputy Commissioner’s office, Somanna stated that the tender process for the 73 km railway line would begin in March. The project, which was initially estimated to cost Rs 927 crore, will face increased costs due to delays, primarily caused by issues with land acquisition.
The railway line requires a total of 828 acres of land, with 600 acres in Belagavi and 228 acres in Dharwad district. Somanna confirmed that 444 acres have already been acquired in Belagavi, and the remaining land is expected to be handed over to the railway department by January or February 2025. In Dharwad, there are ongoing issues with the acquisition of 42 acres, but the minister stated that he has been in contact with Dharwad in-charge minister Santosh Lad to resolve the matter.
The project, which has already seen joint surveys and finalization of railway stations, is expected to be completed in 18-20 months once the land issues are resolved. Somanna also mentioned that a Vande Bharat train service between Belagavi and Bengaluru would begin shortly.
