Bagalkot: In a major push to improve tourism, industry and emergency healthcare services, the Karnataka State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation (KSIIDC) has initiated plans to set up a heliport in Bagalkot district and has asked the district administration to identify suitable land and submit a proposal.KSIIDC chairman SG Nanjayyanmath has written to deputy commissioner Sangappa, seeking allocation of around 15 acres of govt land. He has also held discussions with district officials and assured that the corporation would provide necessary funding once the site is finalised and a proposal is submitted.Nanjayyanmath told TOI that Bagalkot’s growing importance as a tourism hub makes it an ideal location for a heliport. The district houses world-renowned heritage sites such as Badami, Pattadakal and Aihole, besides major pilgrimage and tourist centres like Kudalasangama, Chikkasangama and nearby Almatti. The steady rise in domestic and international footfall has strengthened the case for improved air connectivity.Apart from tourism, the district has emerged as a key industrial and healthcare hub. With 14 sugar factories, two private medical colleges and a government medical college, Bagalkot is seeing rapid growth. The district headquarters has also gained prominence as a regional healthcare centre, increasing the demand for better air transport.Officials said that while there has long been a demand for an airstrip in Bagalkot, its proximity to Vijayapura Airport, about 90 km away, may make approval difficult. A heliport is therefore being considered a practical alternative.The proposed facility will accommodate at least two helicopters and include basic infrastructure for VIP visits, tourism operations and air ambulance services. Authorities are also exploring future fuel-refilling facilities.The project is estimated to cost around Rs 20 crore. While a helipad already exists in Navanagar, it lacks supporting infrastructure and is used mainly during VIP visits. The proposed heliport will serve as a permanent aviation facility for tourism, business travel and emergency services.Once the district administration identifies suitable land and submits a proposal, experts will conduct a technical feasibility survey before the project moves to the tendering stage.
