Reconstruction work begins

Reconstruction work begins
The Hindu

Hubli and Dharwad to have a new look by January 26

HUBLI: Development is the new mantra in Hubli and Dharwad now where a drive against encroachments on footpaths and unauthorised structures ended a few days ago.

Manivannan, Commissioner of the Hubli-Dharwad Municipal Corporation, who initiated the drive, told The Hindu here on Sunday that twin cities will have a new look by January 26.

Mr. Manivannan said reconstruction work has begun. For the next six months the focus will be on improving roads, building footpaths and drains to make the city "worth living."

These works need Rs. 60 crores of which Rs. 30 crores will be spent on roads and work on them has begun. The corporation has planned to approach the State Government for a special package and to seek aid from corporate offices not only to beautify Hubli and Dharwad but also make them a destination for investment, he said.

The corporation on its own is not in a position to shoulder the burden of works and it has been planned to utilise the services of other government organisations such as the Public Works Department and the zilla panchayat. The Deputy Commissioner's office will play a crucial role in this regard, Mr. Manivanan said. Services of engineers from various government departments will be sought on deputation for speedy execution of work. An action plan for the development of twin cities will be released in a week. Participation of non-governmental agencies will be ensured, the Commissioner said.

Mr. Manivannan said a special task force comprising representatives of corporate houses and non-governmental organisations will be constituted to supervise the work on roads, gutters and footpaths. Three corporate houses have come forward to construct footbridges, which they will maintain for 15 years and hand them over to the corporation. Similar arrangement will be made for providing other amenities.

The corporation proposes to handle with caution roads that are likely to be dug up for building an underground drainage system with assistance from Asian Development Bank. The corporation has decided not to allow digging of roads that have been rebuilt. There will be transparency in all works to be undertaken, he said. He said the corporation will notify areas to relocate petty shops removed during the drive. Owners of such shops will be asked to install structures as per new guidelines.