The Karnataka government has failed to meet the June-end deadline to issue final notifications for land acquisition in nine villages for the Bidadi Township project. The deadline was set by then Chief Minister Shivakumar in May, before he assumed the top post. According to officials, the delay is due to pending surveys and valuation reports.
Background of the Project
The Bidadi Township project aims to develop a satellite town near Bengaluru, involving land acquisition across nine villages. In May, Shivakumar announced that final notifications would be issued by the end of June, assuring landowners of fair compensation. The project is expected to ease congestion in Bengaluru and boost regional development.
Reasons for the Delay
Sources in the Revenue Department cited incomplete land surveys and unresolved disputes over compensation rates as primary reasons for the missed deadline. "We are working on completing the process as soon as possible," an official said. The government has not announced a new deadline.
The delay has caused uncertainty among farmers and residents in the affected villages. Many had expected the notifications to be issued promptly after Shivakumar's announcement. Local leaders have urged the government to expedite the process and ensure transparency.
Impact on the Project Timeline
The missed deadline could push back the overall project timeline. The Bidadi Township is part of a larger plan to develop satellite towns around Bengaluru. Delays in land acquisition may affect infrastructure development and private investment. The government had earlier set a target to complete acquisition by 2027.
According to a recent report, the project requires around 2,000 acres of land. Compensation rates are yet to be finalized, with farmers demanding higher rates based on market value. The government has assured that compensation will be as per the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition Act, 2013.
Political Reactions
Opposition parties have criticized the government for failing to meet its own deadline. "This shows the government's lack of commitment to development projects," said a spokesperson for the BJP. The ruling Congress party has defended the delay, citing the complexity of the process.
Shivakumar, now the Deputy Chief Minister, has not commented on the missed deadline. His office stated that the matter is under review and that a new timeline will be announced soon.
