JOIN USAn industrial area developed by Karnataka State Small Industries Development Corporation at an estimated cost of Rs 1.30 crore is lying neglected at Lingapura in the taluk.
To check the migration of youth from rural areas to urban areas and to help the youth to take up self-employment, 10 acres of land was developed.
All the basic infrastructure including water, road and electricity connections have been provided to the area.
Sources said the Forest Department is coming in the way of setting up of industries. When the industrial area was setup, they had not raised any objection. Now, citing an earlier order in 1940, they are claiming that the area comes under the Forest Department.
There are ample opportunities for the setting up of industries related to rubber, arecanut and textiles, said the local residents.
Even after seven years of developing the industrial area, it is yet to be inaugurated officially. The industrial area has turned into a den for illegal activities, alleged residents.
District Industries Centre assistant director Chandrashekar said, "The Forest Department is demanding an alternative 20 acres of land for the 10 acres used for setting up the industrial area. As a result, the industrial area has remained unutilised."