Karnataka Unveils Long-Term Plan to Transform Bengaluru Metropolitan Region by 2037

The Government of Karnataka has outlined a long-term strategy to position the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region (BMR) as a global hub for innovation, technology, advanced manufacturing, and sustainable urban development by 2037. The plan targets an economy valued between USD 390 billion and USD 420 billion and aims to create 2.5 to 3 million new jobs.

Key Details:

• A high-level Steering Committee meeting chaired by the Chief Secretary was held on June 16, 2026.

• The roadmap was presented by the Institute for Sustainability, Employment and Growth Foundation (ISEG Foundation).

• The initiative follows a Statement of Intent signed on May 5, 2026 between the Government of Karnataka and ISEG Foundation.

• Bengaluru Metropolitan Region spans about 8,000 sq. km and has a population of around 1.5 crore.

• BMR currently has an economy worth approximately USD 149 billion and contributes more than 43% of Karnataka’s GSDP.

• The region currently supports nearly 38 lakh jobs.

• Karnataka aims to generate an additional 25 to 30 lakh jobs by 2037.

• New decentralized “Growth Centres” are proposed within and beyond existing city limits to promote balanced regional development.

• Proposed infrastructure projects include:

287 km Circular Rail Network

• 400–500 km of additional Metro network

• 100–200 km of greenfield metro corridors and extensions

• Four new Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) corridors

• Expansion of the Suburban Rail Network

• Upgrades to roads, multimodal transport systems and airport infrastructure

• Stakeholder consultations involving industry, startups, academia and investors are planned between June and September 2026.

• The final master plan is expected to be presented to the Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister in the first week of September 2026.