Union Minister of State for Railways, V. Somanna, expressed his frustration in Belagavi, stating that Karnataka’s Dharwad district in-charge Minister, Santosh Lad, has not been cooperative in resolving persistent issues related to delays in land acquisition for a crucial railway project.
Somanna revealed that over 95% of the land required for the 73 km Belagavi-Hubballi direct railway line, passing through Kittur, has already been acquired. While the Belagavi section is fully secured, approximately 45 acres remain pending in Dharwad district. He explained that these outstanding issues, particularly the reluctance of farmers in certain villages to give up their land, necessitate the active support of local leadership. Despite this clear need, Somanna lamented Minister Lad’s apparent lack of cooperation, expressing his bewilderment at the situation.
Somanna recounted his repeated attempts to schedule meetings with Lad, which proved unsuccessful. He affirmed his determination to try again, even declaring his intention to personally seek out Lad to resolve the impasse if necessary. When questioned about potential political motivations behind Lad’s alleged inaction, Somanna chose not to comment.
Emphasizing the Prime Minister’s directive against politicizing development initiatives, Somanna asserted his own commitment to this principle. He stated that he views the development of Hubballi-Dharwad and Belagavi with the same importance as that of Bengaluru, rejecting any suggestion of political bias in his work.
He cryptically added that some leaders are not collaborating effectively, suggesting they “need some medicine” – implying a strong need for intervention or a change in approach.
While railway regulations permit work to commence once 90% of land acquisition is complete, Somanna clarified that he prefers a more inclusive approach. He stressed the importance of bringing all stakeholders together and ensuring seamless coordination between the State and Union governments for the project’s success.
He acknowledged that the survey for the railway line was approved a considerable time ago, but past errors had led to delays. He assured that efforts are now actively underway to rectify these issues and push the project forward.
Somanna affirmed his consistent communication with railway officials and authorities in both Belagavi and Dharwad districts. He highlighted that establishing a direct railway connection between these two vital cities of Northern Karnataka was a long-cherished vision of the late former Railway Minister Suresh Angadi, a dream he is dedicated to realizing.
He elaborated on the significant benefits of the new line, noting that it would drastically reduce travel time between Hubballi and Belagavi. Upon completion, the introduction of Mainline Electrical Multiple Unit (MEMU) trains would further connect Belagavi, Dharwad, and Hubballi, fundamentally transforming Northern Karnataka. He underscored the proven ability of MEMU trains to enhance connectivity in smaller towns and stimulate local trade and commerce.