Green mobility corridor gathers dust as handover delays stall upkeep

Hubballi: The state’s first green mobility corridor in Hubballi, developed under the Smart City initiative, remains largely unused as it is yet to be handed over for maintenance.The Rs 130 crore project, launched in 2020 to rejuvenate a 10-km Rajakaluve stretch from Unkal Lake to Gabbur Cross, was meant to tackle flooding and sanitation concerns.

Residents say the corridor has since deteriorated and have demanded its immediate handover and upkeep.The project envisioned reviving the Unkal nala and creating an eco-friendly mobility corridor with dedicated walking and cycling tracks. It was among 12 projects selected under the nationwide CITIIS (City Investments to Innovate, Integrate and Sustain) challenge funded by the Union ministry of housing and urban affairs (MoHUA).

However, within four years of its inauguration, residents say it fell into disrepair, turning into a spot for grass and waste dumping, with walkers largely staying away.Sources said that along with canal development, a 2.5-metre-wide walkway and cycle path were built alongside the nala. The project was executed in three phases — the first 6km stretch and two subsequent 2km stretches — but remains incomplete in parts.

Mohan Jaddi, a resident of Hanumath Nagar, questioned the purpose of the corridor after crores were spent. He said it deteriorated within 3-4 years, discouraging visitors. The stretch from Unkal to Lingaraj Nagar is badly damaged, while only about 50 metres near the Hanumath Nagar bridge is usable, he added, urging regular cleaning and maintenance.Ward 37 corporator Umeshgouda Koujageri said the process of handing over the project to HDMC has not begun.

He said the Smart City component had closed and inspection followed by rectification was pending before formal takeover. Despite repeated requests for cleaning, little had been done, he said, adding he would pursue the matter.HDMC executive engineer Vittal Tubake said portions near the new court were cleaned and the remaining areas would be cleared soon. “All smart city projects are deemed handover, but we will formally take over the corridor for maintenance shortly,” he said.