<p>Belagavi: Public Works and District In-charge Minister Satish Jarkiholi has warned that police officials within the Belagavi Police Commissionerate who fail to perform their duties responsibly will face strict action, including suspension. The recent suspension of Belagavi Rural Police Station Police Inspector Manjunath Hiremath should serve as a warning to others, he said.</p><p>Speaking to reporters at Hemmadga village in Khanapur taluk on Saturday, Jarkiholi stated that instructions had been given to the Police Commissioner to take disciplinary action against negligent officers. He said that if Inspector Hiremath had acted responsibly, the incidents in Santibastwad could have been avoided.</p><p>“There has been a noticeable rise in crime within City limits. The Police Commissioner has been directed to implement effective measures to bring the situation under control. Junior-level officers also have a key role and must fulfill their duties responsibly,” he added.</p><p><strong>Forest dwellers’ relocation</strong></p><p>Highlighting a significant initiative, Jarkiholi said that efforts were underway to relocate forest dwellers into mainstream society, an exercise being conducted for the first time in the district. “Some families have voluntarily come forward, and we are providing Rs 15 lakh in support for their relocation. This successful relocation may encourage others from different villages to follow suit,” he explained.</p><p>There is demand for land from the relocating families, and MLA Vithal Halgekar has echoed their concerns. “We will soon hold discussions with Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre on this matter,” Jarkiholi said, emphasising that the relocation is entirely voluntary and aimed at providing better access to basic amenities for forest dwellers.</p><p><strong>Connectivity and infrastructure issues</strong></p><p>Jarkiholi acknowledged that due to stringent environmental norms, road and bridge construction in forest areas has been stalled, leaving several villages in Khanapur disconnected. He said the issue would be taken up with the Forest Minister to explore possible solutions.</p><p>He also noted the untapped potential for eco-tourism in Khanapur, adding that the development of tourism in the region could bring economic benefits and improve infrastructure.</p><p><strong>Chorla Ghat road repair</strong></p><p>Addressing concerns over the deteriorating condition of the Goa road via Chorla Ghat, Jarkiholi said, “After the matter was brought to my attention, we coordinated with the Centre, and the road has now been reconstructed at a cost of Rs 155 crore. This will greatly ease the difficulties faced by commuters,” he added.</p>
<p>Belagavi: Public Works and District In-charge Minister Satish Jarkiholi has warned that police officials within the Belagavi Police Commissionerate who fail to perform their duties responsibly will face strict action, including suspension. The recent suspension of Belagavi Rural Police Station Police Inspector Manjunath Hiremath should serve as a warning to others, he said.</p><p>Speaking to reporters at Hemmadga village in Khanapur taluk on Saturday, Jarkiholi stated that instructions had been given to the Police Commissioner to take disciplinary action against negligent officers. He said that if Inspector Hiremath had acted responsibly, the incidents in Santibastwad could have been avoided.</p><p>“There has been a noticeable rise in crime within City limits. The Police Commissioner has been directed to implement effective measures to bring the situation under control. Junior-level officers also have a key role and must fulfill their duties responsibly,” he added.</p><p><strong>Forest dwellers’ relocation</strong></p><p>Highlighting a significant initiative, Jarkiholi said that efforts were underway to relocate forest dwellers into mainstream society, an exercise being conducted for the first time in the district. “Some families have voluntarily come forward, and we are providing Rs 15 lakh in support for their relocation. This successful relocation may encourage others from different villages to follow suit,” he explained.</p><p>There is demand for land from the relocating families, and MLA Vithal Halgekar has echoed their concerns. “We will soon hold discussions with Forest Minister Eshwar Khandre on this matter,” Jarkiholi said, emphasising that the relocation is entirely voluntary and aimed at providing better access to basic amenities for forest dwellers.</p><p><strong>Connectivity and infrastructure issues</strong></p><p>Jarkiholi acknowledged that due to stringent environmental norms, road and bridge construction in forest areas has been stalled, leaving several villages in Khanapur disconnected. He said the issue would be taken up with the Forest Minister to explore possible solutions.</p><p>He also noted the untapped potential for eco-tourism in Khanapur, adding that the development of tourism in the region could bring economic benefits and improve infrastructure.</p><p><strong>Chorla Ghat road repair</strong></p><p>Addressing concerns over the deteriorating condition of the Goa road via Chorla Ghat, Jarkiholi said, “After the matter was brought to my attention, we coordinated with the Centre, and the road has now been reconstructed at a cost of Rs 155 crore. This will greatly ease the difficulties faced by commuters,” he added.</p>
