Bengaluru: The Jayanagar Traders’ Association (JTA) has renewed its appeal to the Karnataka government to revive a long-pending ₹25 crore Smart Shopping Hub project, saying the initiative would transform one of Bengaluru’s busiest commercial areas into a modern, pedestrian-friendly retail destination.
The proposal, first introduced in 2017, received government approval in 2020 but was put on hold after the Finance Department withheld funds during the Covid-19 pandemic.
Traders seek world-class shopping infrastructure
According to the association, Jayanagar is home to nearly 1,500 traders spread across 14 main roads surrounding the iconic Jayanagar Shopping Complex and attracts an estimated five lakh shoppers and visitors.
JTA Founder-President Prakash Mandoth said the area has the potential to become a model shopping district with better infrastructure and urban planning.
The association has submitted a detailed proposal, prepared at its own expense, outlining measures to improve the shopping experience while boosting commercial activity.
Proposal includes modern civic amenities
The proposed smart shopping hub features include multi-level or automated parking, disabled-friendly footpaths, public WiFi, CCTV surveillance, EV charging stations, information kiosks, public address systems, water kiosks, landscaped public spaces and a dedicated hawkers’ zone.
Other recommendations include a pedestrian-only stretch on 10th Main Road, cycle tracks, groundwater recharge pits, police outposts, illuminated smart bollards, heritage installations, an open-air theatre and a park within the shopping complex.
Traders say project will benefit all stakeholders
The traders believe the redevelopment will improve pedestrian safety, enhance the overall shopping experience and attract more visitors to the locality.
They also argue that increased commercial activity would boost GST collections and generate higher revenue for the government while supporting thousands of businesses operating in Jayanagar.
With Bengaluru increasingly focusing on walkable public spaces and better urban infrastructure, traders hope the long-delayed project will finally receive the financial backing needed for implementation.