Shravanabelagola (Hassan): Chief Minister Siddaramaiah launched development works for Bahubali Mahamastakabhisheka festival, to be held here in February 2018, at a programme organised at Karnataka Jain Association here this morning.

Later, he launched development works at a programme held at Bahubali Engineering College Grounds.

He launched works related to construction of tourist bungalow, 66/11 kV power distribution centre, dormitory at the bus stand, four temporary bus bays among others.

The Government has sanctioned Rs. 175 crore for the festival, which will also be utilised for road development works, construction of VIP guest house and Nature Cure college.

The Jain Association felicitated Chief Minister Siddaramaiah for announcing Mahaveer Shanthi award to Siddaganga Seer Shivakumara Swamiji, and H.D. Deve Gowda for sanctioning rail line to Shravanabelagola and Hassan during his tenure as the Prime Minister.

Later in the afternoon, the CM would hold discussions on the drought situation in the district with the district-level officials and leave for Bengaluru.

District Minister A. Manju, Deputy Commissioner V. Chaitra and other dignitaries were present.