‘Beyond Bengaluru’ Vision: Karnataka to Build More Growth Hubs, Invest ₹1.5 Lakh Crore in Bengaluru Infrastructure, Says CM D.K. Shivakumar
Bengaluru, July 8: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday unveiled the government’s “Beyond Bengaluru” vision, announcing that the state is committed to creating more growth hubs beyond the capital city while investing ₹1.5 lakh crore in Bengaluru’s infrastructure to sustain its position as India’s leading technology and innovation hub.
Addressing leaders of Global Capability Centres (GCCs) during the Target India programme at Manyata Tech Park, and later interacting with the media, the Chief Minister said the government aims to replicate Bengaluru’s success by providing world-class infrastructure and business opportunities in tier-II and tier-III cities across Karnataka.
Shivakumar said office rentals in Bengaluru currently range between $1 and $1.5 per square foot, while similar spaces in smaller cities are available for nearly 50 cents, making them attractive investment destinations. To encourage industries to expand beyond Bengaluru, the government plans to permit double Floor Area Ratio (FAR) in these cities, enabling the construction of more high-rise commercial buildings.
Inviting investors to become partners in Karnataka’s growth story, the Chief Minister said the government remains open to industry suggestions and is committed to providing every possible support for business expansion.
“You are partners in Karnataka’s development and ambassadors of this state. If you grow stronger, Karnataka will become stronger. We are all part of one team — Team Karnataka. Together we can build a stronger future,” he said.
Highlighting Bengaluru’s rapid urban growth, Shivakumar said nearly 30,000 new vehicles are registered every month, making infrastructure expansion a top priority. He said the government has already planned 350 km of Metro connectivity, with a target of extending the network to 500 km in the coming years.
Referring to traffic congestion near Hebbal, he said work has already commenced on a short tunnel road project, while the government is preparing to launch a 40-km tunnel road network, subject to Cabinet approval. He added that Karnataka is also implementing a 44-km double-decker corridor, 133 km of elevated corridors, and the 123-km Bengaluru Business Corridor, with the first phase involving an investment of ₹26,000 crore.
Overall, the government plans to spend ₹1.5 lakh crore on Bengaluru’s infrastructure to improve mobility, connectivity and urban services, he said.
The Chief Minister described Karnataka as one of India’s largest talent pools, stating that the state has 257 engineering colleges producing nearly 1.5 lakh engineering graduates every year.
He said Bengaluru has emerged as a global city and continues to attract multinational companies because of its skilled workforce, favourable climate and strong educational ecosystem. According to him, 40 of India’s 138 international schools are located in Karnataka, primarily in Bengaluru, while nearly two lakh foreign passport holders currently live and work in the city.
Shivakumar said Karnataka is giving greater emphasis to research, innovation and technology-driven investments, while encouraging industries to establish operations across other regions of the state rather than concentrating only in Bengaluru.
He also noted that rising costs in neighbouring states have made Karnataka an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand. The government is working towards creating cities where professionals can reach their workplaces and return home within 30 to 40 minutes, thereby improving quality of life.
The Chief Minister said Bengaluru’s culture and climate remain among its greatest strengths and assured that development would continue without compromising the city’s identity. He also highlighted the government’s ongoing drive to remove footpath encroachments while creating alternative arrangements for street vendors.
Responding to questions from the media after the event, Shivakumar said more than 200 GCC leaders participated in the interaction and offered several suggestions relating to mobility, research, innovation and the Beyond Bengaluru initiative.
He said the government would examine these recommendations and continue providing affordable land and infrastructure to industries willing to establish operations in tier-II and tier-III cities.
On the proposed AI University, the Chief Minister said the government is actively exploring the idea and has already begun seeking expert opinions.
“Our objective is that Karnataka, particularly Bengaluru, should develop technologies and innovations that the world needs,” he said.
The event was attended by Home and Information Technology Minister Priyank Kharge, MLA Sharath Bachegowda, IT and BT Department Secretary Manjula, senior government officials and leaders of Global Capability Centres operating in Karnataka.
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