Badami, one of the ancient cities of India ruled by Chalukyan dynasty, has become one of the 12 cities of the country to be developed under the Union Government’s flagship programme, HRIDAY (Heritage City Development Scheme).
In this regard, the District Administration has prepared a Detailed Project Report (DPR) of Rs. 32.60 crore and submitted the report to the Union Government for approval.
It may be noted that the project which was recently launched by the Union Ministry of Urban Development, aims at preserving and rejuvenating the rich cultural heritage of the country.
The project seeks to promote an integrated, inclusive and sustainable development of heritage sites by focusing not only on maintenance of monuments but also on development of the entire ecosystem including its citizens, tourists and local businesses.
Under the scheme, a broad plan has been prepared by the district administration of Bagalkot, which include the removal of some 72 buildings of Agasthyateertha and Tatakote areas.
Developing roads in the city, providing underground drainage system, renovation of the temple that are in dilapidated condition, providing better accommodation to the tourists, setting up of information centre for the tourists, etc is part of the DPR.
The project also makes provision for recreational facility for visitors by providing boating and other aqua sports centre, heritage walkway, museum and illumination of the hills.
According to the sources, the representatives of INTACH (Indian National Trust of Art and Cultural Heritage) would be visiting Badami within three months in order to assist the District Administration on the need of technology required for preserving the heritage monuments.
The sources said that the Union Government has earmarked Rs. 22.26 crore for Badami in first phase, remaining funds would be released based on the need. The project is proposed to be completed within four years.