Belagavi civic body meet debates on smart city works

The general body meeting of the Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) convened on Saturday, with the primary focus of discussion centered around the quality of Smart City projects undertaken in the city. During the debate session, various concerns and issues related to these projects came to the forefront. Some of the prominent issues raised during the meeting included potholes that persist despite Smart City initiatives, concerns about unscientific canal construction work, problems with water supply leading to sewage leaks, financial constraints, the burden of the Indira canteen on the corporation's budget, dwindling tax collections, an outstanding debt of Rs 17.81 crore from Hescom (Hubli Electricity Supply Company), and the payment of wages for 138 unauthorized civic workers, among others. Congress corporator Azim Patavegar questioned the basis for awarding Belagavi Smart City, as members of the Belagavi Industrial Promotion (BIP) raised complaints about the improper implementation of electricity poles under the Smart City project. In contrast, BJP member Hanumant Kongali expressed pride in receiving the award, attributing it to the commendable efforts put forth in the execution of the Smart City initiatives. The BCC meeting served as a platform for a robust discussion on the progress and challenges of Smart City projects in Belagavi, reflecting the community's commitment to ensuring the highest standards of quality and execution in urban development endeavors.