Hubballi-Dharwad: Emerging Twin Cities in Karnataka
Hubballi, often called Hubli, is located in the state of Karnataka, paired with its twin city Dharwad. Together, Hubballi-Dharwad forms the second-largest urban agglomeration in Karnataka in terms of both area and population.
Vision for Hubballi-Dharwad
The twin cities aim to become a major hub for trade, business, and commerce in the southern Deccan region. With a focus on inclusive growth, Hubballi-Dharwad leverages its strategic location, advanced infrastructure, skilled workforce, and innovative governance to achieve this vision.
Key development goals include:
Enhancing infrastructure, including roads, water supply, and sewage systems.
Adopting technology-driven solutions like command and control centers and e-governance.
Stimulating economic growth, creating job opportunities, and improving the quality of life for residents.
Hubballi-Dharwad Smart City Project
As part of India’s Smart Cities Mission, Hubballi-Dharwad is focused on becoming a sustainable, citizen-friendly, and economically vibrant urban area. The Hubballi-Dharwad Municipal Corporation (HDMC) oversees the city’s 202.3 sq. km area, which includes 45 revenue villages.
Budget Allocation:
INR 1,417 crore for Area-Based Development.
INR 245 crore for ICT-driven solutions across the city.
The Hubballi-Dharwad Smart City Area Solutions (HDSCAS) was formed to execute and monitor projects under the Smart City Challenge, aiming to improve urban infrastructure, attract investments, and generate revenue for the administration.
Key Completed Projects
- Bengeri Central Auditorium, Hubballi
Located on Gopankoppa Road, this 800-capacity auditorium caters to Keshwapur, Shantinagar, and Bengeri residents. It is ideal for events like parties, yoga classes, and cultural celebrations, offering affordable rental rates.
Rental Details:
Half-day: INR 5,000
Full-day: INR 10,000 (+18% GST)
- Mahatma Gandhi Park, Hubballi
A revamped 17.5-acre park featuring a toy train, musical fountains, a sensory park, and a skating rink. It also includes a multi-level parking facility, supporting vendors and offering recreational activities for all age groups. - Tolankere Lake, Hubballi
Spread across 17 acres, this lake park offers a reflexology path, zen garden, amphitheater, open gym, yoga area, and a promenade. It is an ideal destination for relaxation and recreation. - Nehru Ground, Hubballi
This historic venue, established in 1958, has been transformed into a modern multi-sport facility featuring amenities for football, basketball, kabaddi, and wrestling, along with a VIP lounge and cultural feature wall. - Chitaguppi Hospital, Hubballi
One of the city’s oldest healthcare facilities, Chitaguppi Hospital has been renovated into a modern, 100-bed multispecialty hospital. The new facility includes a maternity block, ICU, NICU, operation theatres, and outpatient departments. - Green Mobility Corridor, Hubballi
This 8.5 km eco-friendly corridor along Unkal Nala includes bicycle and pedestrian tracks, sewerage diversion, and landscaped areas. Funded through a European Union grant, the project promotes sustainable urban transport. - Public Bicycle Sharing (Savari), Hubballi
This initiative includes 34 electric and 306 conventional bicycles, available at 34 docking stations. Users can access bicycles through the Savari app, encouraging greener mobility solutions. - Multi-Level Car Parking Complex, Hubballi
Located at Court Circle, this facility addresses urban parking challenges. It features automated monitoring systems, bike-sharing facilities, and commercial spaces. - Integrated Sports Complex, Hubballi
This 15-acre sports complex supports the Fit India Movement, offering 19 indoor and outdoor sports facilities. Despite delays due to the pandemic, the project promises to nurture future international athletes. - Unkal Lake, Hubballi
Restored by HDSCAS, Unkal Lake now features floating fountains, aerators, gabion walls, new vegetation, and better lighting. Once a primary drinking water source, it has been revitalized into a scenic recreational spot.
Impact on Real Estate
Smart city projects have significantly boosted real estate in Hubballi-Dharwad. For example, property prices near Tolankere Lake have doubled, increasing from INR 2,000 per sq. ft. to INR 4,000 per sq. ft. due to improved amenities such as meditation zones, walkways, and children’s play areas.
Conclusion
The Hubballi-Dharwad Smart City Project is transforming the twin cities into more efficient, sustainable, and livable urban spaces. With a wide range of completed projects, from parks and lakes to transportation and healthcare, these initiatives are setting the foundation for future growth, innovation, and prosperity.
Hubballi dharwad smart city contact number: 0836 235 5331