Hubballi-Dharwad Bypass Road Widening Work; CS Dr. Shalini Rajneesh Directs Completion Within Deadline
Dharwad: Karnataka Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh on Saturday visited the Hubballi-Dharwad bypass road where widening of this crucial road is going on, she inspected the stretch from Narendra Cross to Gabbur.
The project, part of National Highway 48, involves upgrading the road between Narendra Cross in Dharwad and Gabbur in Hubballi to six lanes. Despite initial land acquisition, delays by the contractor have hindered progress. Dr. Rajneesh instructed contractors and officials to complete the work on schedule without further delays.
She emphasized the need to complete the remaining work within 15 days and submit reports to her. Dr. Rajneesh stressed that the quality of work must not be compromised, directing officials to monitor every phase closely. She urged the contractor to complete the project by December 2025 as per the agreement and make the road operational for public use as soon as possible.
Addressing pending land acquisition issues, Dr. Shalini Rajneesh instructed officials to clear related files promptly, approve proposals, and release the necessary funds. She also inspected the area near the Kelageri railway overpass, calling for the expedited start of work there and the arrangement of alternative routes for public convenience.
Dharwad Deputy Commissioner Divya Prabhu explained that the bypass widening project covers 30 km and involves the acquisition of 14.26 hectares in the first phase, for which ₹98 crore has been released. Of this, ₹27 crore has already been disbursed to farmers and landowners. The second phase of land acquisition, involving 10 hectares, is underway, with proposals submitted for approval.
The project is scheduled for completion by December 2025. However, Dr. Shalini Rajneesh highlighted the importance of finishing ahead of schedule for public benefit. Officials confirmed that contractors have been warned against delays and that quality standards are being strictly monitored.
Hubballi-Dharwad Police Commissioner N Shashi Kumar, DCP Mahaning Nandagavi, Dharwad Superintendent of Police Dr. Gopal Byakod and Special Land Acquisition Officer Devaraj R., were present during the inspection.
