BUDA’s Bold Move to Shape Belagavi’s Future
The Belagavi Urban Development Authority (BUDA) has expanded the city’s planning zone by adding 58 nearby villages. It acted under Section 4A of the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act (1961). As a result, Belagavi aims to grow across 150-180 square kilometers by 2050.
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Villages such as Honaga, Sambra, Kadoli, Kalakamba, and Nilaji now fall directly under BUDA’s regulations. Therefore, builders must seek BUDA’s approval before starting any new residential, commercial, or industrial construction.
Building a Modern and Sustainable Belagavi
BUDA plans to create mini-cities around the main city center. These will feature organized housing clusters, open green spaces, public infrastructure, and well-planned industrial areas. In addition, BUDA believes this move will attract investors, create job opportunities, and improve living standards for residents.
Moreover, officials expect landowners to benefit from rising land values, boosting the region’s economy over time.
Villages Push Back Against New Rules
However, many villagers and local gram panchayats have raised concerns. They fear the new approval system will make construction more expensive and complicated.
For example, villagers building simple homes or small shops would need official permissions and No Objection Certificates (NOCs). These requirements could place heavy financial and bureaucratic burdens on rural families.
Furthermore, critics warn that strict rules might hurt traditional ways of living and force people into costly legal procedures.
Communities Demand Fair Treatment
Village leaders are pressing the government to reconsider the rules. They suggest exempting small, simple buildings from needing approvals. Without such changes, anger and protests could rise across the newly added areas.
Clearly, the people want development, but not at the cost of affordability and rural traditions.
The Way Forward
BUDA must now find a careful balance. On one side, Belagavi needs better infrastructure to support future growth. On the other side, rural communities deserve protection from unnecessary hardship.
Therefore, BUDA must adopt a flexible, people-centered approach. By blending progress with sensitivity, Belagavi can create a development model that other cities may follow.
In conclusion, the choices made today will shape the Belagavi of tomorrow. Cooperation between authorities and villagers is essential to build a thriving, inclusive city.
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