Publication of Notification in respect of Quadrupling between Hospete and Ballari stations in terms of clause 7A and 20F of the Railway Act 1989

**Executive Summary** This notification, issued by the Ministry of Railways on April 23, 2026, designates specific "Competent Authorities" and an "Arbitrator" for land acquisition related to the quadrupling of the Hosapete-Bellari railway line (65km). Published in the official gazette on April 24, 2026, the order applies to the districts of Vijayanagar and Ballari under the powers of the Railway Act, 1989. These appointments are effective immediately from the date of publication to facilitate the requirements of this Special Railway Project. **Key Points / Main Content** **Legal Authorization and Scope** * The notification is issued under Clause (6) of Section 20F and Clause 7A of Section 2 of the Railway Act, 1989. * The provisions apply specifically to land acquisition for the "Quadrupling Between Hosapete-Bellari stations (65km)" project. * The order is effective from its publication date in the official gazette (April 24, 2026). **Appointment of Competent Authorities** * For the Vijayanagar district, the Assistant Commissioner, Hospet, is designated as the Competent Authority. * For the Ballari district, the Assistant Commissioner, Ballari, is designated as the Competent Authority. * These officers are authorized to perform all functions of a Competent Authority under the Act for the specified project. **Appointment of Arbitrator** * The Regional Commissioner, Kalburgi, is appointed as the Arbitrator for both the Vijayanagar and Ballari districts. * The Arbitrator is authorized to perform statutory functions under the Railway Act, 1989, regarding this Special Railway Project. **Impact Analysis** **Ministry of Railways (South Western Railway, Construction Organisation)** **Impact** The Ministry establishes the legal framework and personnel required to execute land acquisition for the Hosapete-Bellari project. **Action Required** The Ministry must coordinate with the newly authorized officials to progress with the necessary land acquisition for the 65km quadrupling line. **Assistant Commissioners of Hospet and Ballari** **Impact** These officials are formally empowered as "Competent Authorities" with the legal responsibility to manage land acquisition in their respective districts. **Action Required** They must perform the statutory functions of a Competent Authority as prescribed under the Railway Act, 1989, specifically for the public purpose of the railway project. **Regional Commissioner, Kalburgi** **Impact** The Commissioner is assigned the legal role of "Arbitrator" for the project across two districts. **Action Required** The official must prepare to perform arbitration duties and resolve matters as defined under the provisions of the Railway Act, 1989. **Landowners and Stakeholders in Vijayanagar and Ballari Districts** **Impact** Landholdings may be subject to acquisition for the special railway project through the designated officials. **Action Required** Affected parties must direct all matters, claims, or disputes regarding land acquisition to the designated Assistant Commissioners or the Regional Commissioner of Kalburgi as applicable.

Key Entities Referenced