Karnataka Cabinet Approves Significant Rs 5,000 Crore Borrowing for KIADB and Bifurcates Hubballi-Dharwad Corporation

The Karnataka cabinet has approved an increase in the borrowing limit for the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB). The limit has been raised from Rs 500 crore to Rs 5,000 crore. This decision supports KIADB's plan to acquire 28,741 acres for developing 24 industrial areas across Karnataka. Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister H K Patil stated that the total cost for these developments is expected to be Rs 32,380 crore, with Rs 26,505 crore allocated for land acquisition.

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In another significant move, the cabinet decided to split the Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation. A new urban local body will be established to manage Dharwad city separately. Dharwad is renowned as Karnataka's cultural hub and has been home to four Jnanpith award winners: D R Bendre, V K Gokak, and Girish Karnad. Minister Patil mentioned that this change would occur promptly after completing necessary technical and legal procedures.

Focus on Infrastructure and Cultural Heritage

The cabinet also addressed infrastructure projects within Bengaluru. The third phase of white topping roads in the city's municipal limits was cancelled. Although contracts had been awarded, work did not commence, leading to tender cancellations. The estimated cost for white topping 92 roads spanning 119 km was Rs 1,172 crore.

Additionally, administrative approval was granted to enhance 14 existing Goshalas. Minister Patil clarified that while new Goshalas are not being cancelled, Rs 10.5 crore is allocated for strengthening the current ones. Of the 35 new Goshalas planned, work on 14 has been completed, with a focus now on improving these facilities.

The cabinet's decisions reflect a strategic approach to development and heritage preservation in Karnataka. By increasing KIADB's borrowing capacity and focusing on existing infrastructure projects, the government aims to boost industrial growth while maintaining cultural significance in regions like Dharwad.