Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar has sought a special financial package of ₹26,000 crore from the Union government to support major infrastructure projects in Bengaluru, arguing that the city’s contribution to the national economy warrants greater central assistance.
During his first official visit to New Delhi after assuming office, Shivakumar met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and presented a comprehensive proposal aimed at strengthening Bengaluru’s infrastructure, mobility network and long-term competitiveness as a global technology hub.
Focus on Bengaluru’s transformation
Urban development has been one of Shivakumar’s key priorities. Soon after taking charge as chief minister, he announced plans to allocate ₹2,000 crore for repairing and upgrading Bengaluru’s roads.
In his communication to the Prime Minister, Shivakumar emphasised Bengaluru’s role as a major contributor to India’s economy and highlighted the growing pressure on civic infrastructure due to rapid urbanisation and migration.
He noted that nearly 40 per cent of Bengaluru’s residents originate from other states, placing additional demands on transport, housing and public services.
Metro expansion tops wish list
Among the major proposals submitted to the Centre is the approval of the revised Phase 3 project of Namma Metro. The 44.65-kilometre elevated corridor is planned as a double-decker structure combining a metro line and a road flyover, with the Karnataka government offering to bear the additional project cost.
The state has also requested approval for Phase 3A of Namma Metro, a ₹25,999-crore project that will connect Sarjapura and Hebbal through a 37.8-kilometre corridor comprising underground and elevated sections.
Additionally, Karnataka has sought clearance for the revised completion cost of Metro Phase 2, which has increased significantly due to project expansion and implementation challenges.
Large-scale infrastructure vision
Apart from metro projects, the state government has requested support for the Satellite Town Ring Road and a proposed Regional Rapid Rail Transit System connecting Bengaluru with Mysuru, Tumakuru, Chikkaballapura, Kolar and Kanakapura.
According to Shivakumar, Karnataka has already identified infrastructure projects worth nearly ₹1 lakh crore aimed at improving mobility and making Bengaluru more resilient to climate-related challenges.
The state has also submitted proposals under the Centre’s Urban Challenge Fund, seeking support for elevated corridors, sewage treatment facilities and the Bengaluru Business Corridor project
#DKShivakumar #Bengaluru #Infrastructure #NammaMetro #Karnataka #NewsKarnataka