Belagavi: The BJP, which governs the Belagavi City Corporation (BCC), has intensified its stand against Larsen & Toubro (L&T) over delays in the city’s ambitious 24×7 water supply project. BJP leaders, led by Belagavi South MLA Abhay Patil, recently staged a protest outside the L&T office, warning that continued delays in crucial civic works will not be tolerated.
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Expressing dissatisfaction over the slow pace of progress, MLA Abhay Patil urged the government to take stronger action beyond financial penalties. He suggested reviewing the contract or initiating legal proceedings if the company fails to speed up the work. Patil also highlighted poor execution on the ground, noting that several major roads dug up for pipeline installation have not been properly restored, leading to potholes, dust, and traffic congestion across the city.
The Belagavi City Corporation had earlier imposed a penalty of ₹21.4 crore on L&T in September 2023 for delays. As the situation did not improve, the state government increased the penalty to ₹50 crore. So far, L&T has paid ₹30 crore, while ₹20 crore remains pending. BJP leaders have demanded immediate recovery of the remaining amount.
The water supply project, awarded to L&T in 2021, aims to provide round-the-clock water to all 58 wards in Belagavi. It was initially scheduled for completion by June 2025, but due to repeated delays, the deadline has now been extended by 15 months to March 2027. Despite the extension, concerns remain about whether the project will meet the revised timeline.
Currently, only 14 wards are receiving 24×7 water supply, including 10 wards that were part of a pilot project implemented before L&T took over. A large portion of the work is still pending, raising concerns among residents and public representatives.
Under the agreement, L&T is not only responsible for completing the project but also for operating and maintaining the system for 12 years after its completion. BJP leaders have reiterated the need for faster execution, better quality work, and accountability to ensure that the long-delayed project benefits the citizens at the earliest.
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