Inchara Udupi
Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)
Udupi, Feb 9: Belapu in this taluk has carved out a niche for itself at the state and national level because of the giant strides it has made in the field of rural development. The village is being developed into a smart village. President of Belapu gram panchayat, Dr Deviprasad Shetty, said that the village is being equipped with circles and a bus shelter on the model of the ones existing in Singapore.
Shetty said that the panchayat is moving ahead with the motto of achieving progress of Belapu by combining rural atmosphere with modern amenities. "In addition to continuing to encourage activities like agriculture, dairying and horticulture duly making sure that age old traditions are not harmed, development projects worth over Rs 478 crore are being implemented here. Concreted roads, connecting bridges, clean drinking water, underground water table augmentation projects, and environment protection are some of the key areas that are getting added impetus," Shetty explained. He also said that the village has also been transformed into digital one with free WiFi and ATM facilities.
"We have conceptualized to transform Belapu into a 'smart village' on the lines of 'smart city' project. To support this concept, all roads connecting Belapu have been widened and developed. State of the art science research centre costing Rs 400 crore, setting up of government polytechnic by spending ten crore rupees, and primary and English medium high school, are aimed at making this village an educational hub. A small scale industries park is being set up in 68 acres land for employment and industry to brighten the future of young people. Development Konkan railway station near here, construction of rural stadium, government quarters extension like in the city, schemes meant for economic empowerment, and banking system have been put in place. Ancient ponds and Hindu graveyard have been developed, and funds have been provided for development projects pertaining to all the communities here," Deviprasad Shetty explained.
With help from donors, three circles, and a bus shelter have been built on the lines of urban areas with the support of donors. They have added to the uniqueness and grand looks of Belapu village, Dr Shetty has opined.