CM D.K. Shivakumar Pays Tribute to Kempegowda, Announces Major Development Initiatives for Bengaluru

Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar paid homage to Bengaluru founder Nadaprabhu Kempegowda during Kempegowda Jayanthi celebrations and announced several initiatives, including a ₹1.25 lakh crore development programme for Bengaluru, plans for vertical urban growth, a large-scale tree plantation drive, Metro expansion, and heritage conservation projects.

Key Details:

• Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar described Kempegowda as a “Vishwamanava” (universal human) and urged people to follow his inclusive vision.

• He said Bengaluru’s future development would focus on vertical growth to accommodate the city’s expanding population.

• The government has prepared a ₹1.25 lakh crore development programme for Bengaluru.

• A 500-km Metro expansion is being planned over the next two years, including improved airport connectivity.

• The government launched a campaign to plant 15 lakh saplings to restore Bengaluru’s green cover and announced plans to develop parks on Forest Department land around the city.

• A ₹100 crore development project for Kempegowda’s Fort in Magadi is underway.

• The government has initiated the acquisition of 10 acres near Kempegowda’s tomb in Magadi, with 5.5 acres already purchased.

• Airport authorities have been asked to prepare an action plan to introduce visitors to Kempegowda’s history at the Trumpet Circle near Kempegowda International Airport.

• The Chief Minister announced that a Karnataka Housing Board (KHB) site for the Bengaluru North Vokkaligara Sangha in Yelahanka will be allotted at 10% of the applicable rate.

• He urged citizens to prepare for the possibility of drought this year and called for collective efforts to support farmers.

• The government has decided to conduct Kempegowda Jayanthi celebrations across Bengaluru’s Assembly constituencies in the coming years.