Tilakwadi Residents Oppose ROB at 2nd Railway Gate
Belagavi: Residents of Tilakwadi have strongly opposed the construction of a Railway Overbridge (ROB) near the Second Railway Gate. They say the plan will create serious inconvenience in this quiet, residential area. Concerns include safety risks, blocked access, and disruption of daily life.
For more details : https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/residents-of-tilakwadi-oppose-rob-in-belagavi/article69837765.ece
Why Locals Are Objecting to the ROB
Tilakwadi is a peaceful locality with many schools, colleges, kindergartens, and religious places located near the railway track. Locals argue that:
- Children and elderly people will struggle to climb the elevated bridge.
- A temple near the crossing draws hundreds of devotees daily, and access may be cut off.
- Roads around the bridge are narrow. Residents fear the ROB will block connectivity to some areas.
- Another ROB already exists at the Third Railway Gate, just 2 kilometers away, which they feel is sufficient.
They believe building another ROB in such close proximity is unscientific and unnecessary.
Official Plans and Project Timeline
The ROB plan has been in the works for several years. Although the railways approved it in 2018, delays stalled progress. Officials restarted work in January 2025 by conducting soil testing.
The project includes:
- ₹32 crore budget
- 225 square meters of land proposed for acquisition
- Estimated completion by December 2026
Despite this, local opposition began right from the soil testing phase. Many residents demanded that the existing level crossing be retained instead.
Public Meeting and Government Response
Following a report by the Deputy Commissioner, the South Western Railway has proposed a public meeting. This meeting will allow residents to raise their concerns directly and get clarification from railway engineers and district officials.
The final date of the meeting will be decided after discussions with elected representatives, including local MLAs and MPs.
Political Leaders React to the Situation
MLA Abhay Patil, along with officials, visited the site and interacted with the residents. During the visit, people shared alternative suggestions such as constructing a viaduct or an underground tunnel instead of the overbridge.
While some supported these alternatives, officials responded that such options would increase costs and delay the project significantly.
On May 6, a joint meeting was held involving the District Commissioner, MP Jagadish Shettar, and railway authorities. Both Mayor Mangesh Pawar and Deputy Mayor Vani Vilas Joshi have supported the demand for more public involvement before proceeding.
What Happens Next?
The project remains in a state of uncertainty. While authorities push for its development, residents demand transparency and reconsideration.
Until the public meeting takes place, construction is unlikely to move forward. The future of this overbridge now depends on what both the public and officials decide together.
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