The Karnataka Government has approved a proposal to extend the 24x7 water supply scheme from a few select wards to the entire city corporations of Hubli-Dharwad, Belgaum and Gulbarga.

Karnataka Urban Infrastructure Development and Finance Corporation (KUIDFC) has prepared a proposal to scale up the project to all wards of three civic bodies, at an estimated cost of Rs 735 crore. The project is likely to be implemented on a PPP model in three city corporations.

The private operator is likely to invest 50 per cent (Rs 367 crore), the Union Government funds under the viability gap funding will be 20 per cent (Rs 147 crore), state government contribution will be 20 per cent (Rs 147 crore), and urban local body contribution will be 10 per cent (Rs 73 crore).

The selection of a consultant for preparation of DPR and transaction support is underway. The consultant is likely to suggest names of private operators best suited to invest in the project. The project is expected to be commenced within the next one year.

KUIDFC plans to augment the water supply in Hubli-Dharwad City Corporation by drawing water from Malaprabha River, while water to Belgaum city will be drawn from Ghataprabha River. Water is likely to be supplied from Bheema and Bennethora rivers to residents of the Gulbarga City Corporation.