Belagavi : The North Belgaum Industries Association (NBIA), representing industries in the Honaga, Kakti and Kangrali industrial areas, has raised concerns over poor infrastructure, inadequate civic amenities and long-pending ownership issues affecting industrial units.
The NBIA has over 100 registered members representing more than 300 industrial units in North Belagavi. Its member industries provide direct employment to more than 5,000 workers, according to the association. Roads have not been asphalted for nearly 15 years, and several stretches are riddled with potholes that fill with rainwater during the monsoon, posing risks to workers and commuters. The NBIA also raised the issue of ownership documents for industrial properties, claiming that more than 50% of industrialists still do not possess proper ownership records despite operating their businesses in the region for over three decades.
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The association said it has been consistently taking up industrialists’ grievances with the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB), the District Industries Centre (DIC) and other govt agencies. Infrastructure in the Honaga industrial area is in a particularly poor condition, according to the NBIA. Water leaking from pipelines onto roads has further contributed to their deterioration, it said. The association said that while the state govt is actively inviting new investments and promoting Karnataka as an industrial destination, the grievances of existing industries have not received adequate attention despite repeated representations. The association said resolving these issues is essential for the growth of existing industries, sustaining investor confidence and creating a conducive business environment.
It has also repeatedly highlighted the infrastructure requirements and operational challenges faced by industrial units. The association also pointed to the incomplete and poorly maintained stormwater drainage network, which has worsened problems during the rainy season. Repeated road cutting by various agencies for laying cables, water pipelines and gas lines has emerged as another major concern. The NBIA alleged that such works are often undertaken without proper coordination and that roads are not adequately restored after the projects are completed. Inadequate street lighting and poor maintenance have also become a matter of concern for industries and workers. It plans to meet with concerned ministers and senior govt officials to seek time-bound solutions. Download the TOI App.
The issues were discussed at the association’s annual general body meeting held in Belagavi on Wednesday.