35-acre business centre planned in Gadag under PPP model

The proposed Gadag-Betageri Business Centre, planned on nearly 35 acres in the heart of Gadag, is set to be developed in phases under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. A second consultation meeting with bidders, entrepreneurs, traders and investors who have responded to the Expression of Interest (EOI) issued for the project was held at the district administrative complex in Gadag on Saturday (August 22).

Chairing the meeting, H.K. Patil, Gadag MLA, said that the project should be developed to high standards, with no compromise on the quality of construction or infrastructure. The proposed facilities should be attractive, functional and serve the public for the long term, he said.

Mr. Patil said that as the project was being implemented through a PPP model, private participants should not view it solely from a profit perspective but also contribute with a sense of public service. The primary objective was to provide quality facilities to the public through collaboration between the government, private organisations and the community, he added.

Seven-sector development

The project is proposed to be divided into seven sectors. The proposed facilities include a five-star hotel, modern commercial establishments, a convention hall, a textile centre, a children’s entertainment zone, Gandhi Bhavan, landscaped circles, wider roads and improved transport connectivity.

The Gadag-Betageri Trade, Culture and Exhibition Authority, a government agency, has been allotted nearly 35 acres in the city for the project, Mr. Patil said, adding that an EOI was invited to attract private investors and institutions for developing the site as a major commercial hub.

He said that Gadag had historically been an important centre for trade, including cotton commerce, besides its significance in the cultural, educational and political spheres. The district’s historical and tourist attractions, including Lakkundi, also offered considerable scope for investment in tourism and commerce, he said.

Mr. Patil urged local traders and investors to submit their requirements and suggestions in writing by September 10 so that feasible proposals could be considered while finalising the project.

Representatives of KPMC made a presentation on the proposed design, infrastructure, sector-wise development and the phased implementation of the business centre.

Deputy Commissioner C.N. Sridhar said there would be no compromise on legal compliance or quality during implementation. The final project should adhere to the objectives and quality standards already laid down, he said.

Mr. Sridhar also urged local traders and entrepreneurs to make use of the opportunity and participate in the project. If local investors failed to come forward, large investors from outside the district could take up commercial activities in the area, he said.

The project is expected to give a boost to trade, employment, investment, tourism and urban infrastructure in Gadag.

Chairman of Gadag-Betageri Urban Development Authority Akbar Sab Babarchi, Superintendent of Police Rohan Jagadish, Additional Deputy Commissioner Durgesh K.R., Assistant Commissioner Gangappa M., Joint Director (Industries) Prakash and representatives of the Chamber of Commerce, traders, investors and other stakeholders attended the meeting.