In a major impetus for road infrastructure in north Karnataka, the Centre has sanctioned 13 highway projects of a length of 847 km at a cost of Rs.210 bn. The projects include widening of the Hubballi- Dharwad bypass and Belagavi-Raichur highway and bypass road for Naragud and Navalagund towns. All the project sanctioned will be taken up this year and detailed project reports are being prepared. The state is expected to cooperate in land acquisition, environmental clearances, and utility shifting.