Pic: Gokul Road, also known as Airport Road in Hubballi, is rapidly emerging as a hub for shopping malls and big commercial complexesHubballi: Gokul Road, also known as Airport Road in Hubballi, is rapidly emerging as a hub for shopping malls and larger commercial complexes. The nearly 9-km stretch is developing into a lifestyle destination, driven by an influx of young professionals and students into the city.Many malls located in older market areas face heavy traffic congestion and a shortage of parking space. As a result, shoppers are increasingly preferring malls on Gokul Road, which offer easier accessibility and ample parking facilities, making the area a popular alternative shopping destination.Rohit Gopalani, chief business officer, Inorbit Malls (India), noted that Hubballi is emerging as a standout example, now being called the ‘student city’ of North Karnataka. “Now, malls are evolving beyond shopping into vibrant social ecosystems designed for young audiences—blending fashion, affordability, food culture, and community experiences. The city’s growing student population has led to an uptick in lifestyle spending—think ‘first stipend shopping’, weekend hangouts, and budget-friendly brand aspirations,” he added.Gururaj Annigeri, executive director, Marvel Properties, observed that the demand for residential projects has increased on Gokul Road. “Land prices have increased by over 200 times after Covid. Real estate growth is good after the city started witnessing congestion. Proximity to the central bus stand and airport is an advantage here. Parking issues in the central business district are pushing shoppers to this stretch. Moreover, new malls and complexes are coming up with good facilities for office space, managed offices with interiors, and this development has led IT companies to establish their units here. The facelift of the central bus stand boosted the stretch, and now we are looking for a facelift of the airport. Once the Hubballi-Dharwad bypass gets ready with 6 lanes, this stretch will reach new heights. Upcoming apartment projects are getting enquiries from IT employees from companies including Infosys,” he analysed.PM Veeresha Sharma, a resident and entrepreneur in Ganghi Nagar, Gokul Road, shared that construction works like the flyover, HD-BRTS lane, and Old Bus Stand have been pushing shoppers away from traditional market areas of Hubballi. “Transportation and traffic have made shopping miserable there. At the other end, Airport Road is systematically developed with modern layouts, malls, and larger complexes. Hence, the stretch is attracting shoppers from areas like Vidyanagar, Old Hubballi, etc. However, authorities should take precautionary measures to avoid congestion and traffic jams from now itself,” he opined.Malls/commercial complexes on Airport Road– Inorbit Mall– Mangalya Shopping Mall– South India Shopping Mall– Urban Oasis Mall– Pride Icon– Akshay Park Building– Signature Mall
