Belagavi: The Karnataka government has released ₹70 crore for land acquisition compensation for the proposed 73-km Belagavi–Dharwad railway line via Kittur, giving fresh momentum to the long-pending infrastructure project. The district administration has begun disbursing compensation to eligible landowners in phases.
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The railway line is being developed under a 50:50 cost-sharing arrangement between the Central and Karnataka governments. While the state is responsible for acquiring the required land, it is also bearing half of the project’s total cost.
The project, initially estimated at ₹927 crore, is expected to see a rise in costs due to delays, increasing land acquisition expenses, and higher construction costs. Large stretches of land in Belagavi and Dharwad districts are being acquired for the rail corridor.
Land acquisition has faced resistance in several villages, including Idalhond, Nagenahalli, KK Kopp, Guralgunji, Nandihalli, and Halgimardi, where farmers had opposed the proposed alignment and demanded an alternative route. The district administration later held discussions with affected landowners while continuing the acquisition process.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Roshan said the new railway line would significantly improve connectivity between Belagavi and Dharwad via Kittur, reducing dependence on the longer route through Londa. He added that the line would strengthen passenger and freight movement and could support premium train services such as the Vande Bharat Express.
Officials said compensation payments and the transfer of acquired land to the Railways are being prioritised so construction can begin without further delay once the remaining formalities are completed.
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