The Suvarna Vidhana Soudha, an iconic government building on the outskirts of Belagavi, is deteriorating due to neglect and inadequate maintenance. The building’s walls, canopies, and pillars are now covered in reddish-green moss, a consequence of prolonged disuse and continuous rainfall.
Constructed at a cost of nearly Rs 500 crore, the Suvarna Vidhana Soudha was intended as a symbol of power in northern Karnataka and hosts the state’s 10-day winter legislative session each December. Despite an annual maintenance budget of Rs 2.5 crore, the building is typically only maintained ahead of the legislative session, leaving it neglected for the remainder of the year.
Belagavi Deputy Commissioner Mohammed Roshan acknowledged the issue, stating that he has already spoken to the Public Works Department (PWD) executive engineer. He mentioned that last year’s maintenance tender was delayed but remains valid until January. “Preparatory work for the winter session is already underway, and we will ensure daily maintenance during the session. Afterward, fresh funds will be sought, and new tenders will be called,” he added. Despite the availability of funds, Roshan cited continuous rains as a major hindrance to ongoing maintenance efforts.
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