BUDA Initiates Kanabargi Residential Project

The Belagavi Urban Development Authority (BUDA) has initiated the process of seeking consultant firms to execute the Kanabargi residential project (scheme no.16). If all proceeds as planned, applications for the sites are set to be invited from the public in February 2024. BUDA has not introduced a new layout in the past 15 years, leading to a substantial increase in land costs within the city. The Ramtirth Nagar layout was BUDA's previous residential project, and its underperformance has exerted significant pressure on BUDA to advance the Kanabargi project. Initially intended for development over 159 acres and 23 ?guntas?, the project may now proceed on the remaining land due to legal disputes with farmers occupying about 30 acres. This has contributed to BUDA's delay in launching a new layout in the city. Previously, the government had proposed a 60:40 land-sharing ratio with farmers, which was rejected. A subsequent proposal for a 50:50 ratio found acceptance among most farmers, except those who own 30 acres. These farmers are still in legal battles to protect their land, particularly because some have already built structures on it. Under the agreement, BUDA is obligated to provide 50% of developed sites to the farmers who relinquished their land. During a recent visit to Belagavi, the Urban Development Minister, Byrathi Suresh, indicated that work on the Kanabargi layout project would commence within two months. Accordingly, BUDA has initiated the tendering process. BUDA Commissioner Shakeel Ahmed stated, We have already issued tenders, and if all goes according to plan, site marking work will commence within two months. Additionally, BUDA has outlined plans for a 20-acre residential building complex within Kanabargi to address the housing needs of the lower and middle-income segments. As confirmed by BUDA Commissioner Shakeel Ahmed, this project will kick off once the Kanabargi layout project is underway.