Belagavi MLA Slams Karnataka Government Over CITIIS 2.0 Funding Shortfall
In a significant development concerning urban infrastructure, Belagavi South MLA Abhay Patil has launched sharp criticism against the Karnataka state government for its reluctance to contribute its designated share to the CITIIS 2.0 scheme. This central government initiative is specifically aimed at enhancing solid waste management capabilities within the city of Belagavi.
Funding Structure and Public Confusion
Speaking during the Belagavi City Corporation (BCC) council meeting on Monday, Patil addressed widespread public confusion surrounding the Rs 135 crore project. He clarified that certain organizations have been disseminating misleading information about the scheme's financial framework.
The funding breakdown under CITIIS 2.0 guidelines is clear:
- 40% of the total project cost to be borne by the Central Government
- 40% contribution expected from the State Government
- Remaining 20% to be provided by the local civic body
Patil emphasized that while both the Central Government and Belagavi City Corporation have confirmed their readiness to fulfill their financial commitments, the state government has notably failed to commit its crucial 40% portion.
Project Delays and Alternative Proposals
"The project is facing significant delays in Belagavi specifically because the state government is not providing support for this scheme," Patil stated unequivocally. He revealed that instead of allocating fresh funds, the government has suggested utilizing State Finance Commission (SFC) grants to cover its share.
Patil strongly objected to this proposal, arguing that SFC grants rightfully belong to the Belagavi City Corporation, and diverting these funds for a central scheme represents an unfair financial burden on the local body. "Such directions were never given in previous instances," he noted, highlighting the unusual nature of this suggestion.
Belagavi's Unique Position and Financial Implications
The MLA pointed out that Belagavi holds the distinction of being the only city in Karnataka to receive approval under the prestigious CITIIS 2.0 scheme. He suggested that the state government's failure to contribute its share amount potentially indicates weak financial conditions within the state administration.
Ruling party leader of BCC, advocate Hanumant Kongali, provided further clarification regarding the corporation's position. He confirmed that BCC remains prepared to contribute its 20% share, amounting to approximately Rs 18 crore payable in three annual instalments.
However, Kongali warned that due to the state government's reluctance, the project scope faces likely reduction from the original Rs 135 crore to just Rs 75 crore. "We have never stated that we will not pay our share," Kongali asserted. "The Congress leaders in opposition should actively persuade the state government to support this project so it can be implemented at full scale."
Urgent Deadline and Implementation Details
Adding to the urgency, Kavita Warangal, Managing Director of Belagavi Smart City Limited, revealed that March 31 serves as the critical deadline for completing all procedural formalities and obtaining final approval from the central government.
She emphasized that BCC must deposit its 20% share into the Smart City account and finalize all project components before this deadline expires. Failure to meet these requirements could result in Belagavi losing the scheme entirely.
During the council meeting, officials disclosed that one acre of land has been identified in both the Belagavi North and Belagavi South assembly constituencies for project implementation. However, MLA Abhay Patil raised objections regarding the selection of land within his constituency, noting that this decision was made without prior consultation with local representatives.
The ongoing dispute highlights the complex interplay between different levels of government in implementing crucial urban development projects, with Belagavi's waste management future hanging in the balance as the March 31 deadline approaches.
