Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced on Saturday that the Karnataka government has allocated ₹203 crore for various initiatives aimed at commemorating Bengaluru’s founder, Nadaprabhu Kempegowda.
Addressing a gathering at Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar revealed that ₹103 crore will be dedicated to the development and restoration of Kempegowda’s memorials, while an additional ₹100 crore has been earmarked for the establishment of a College of Urban Design in his name.
Also read: Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout near Kengeri chosen for Bengaluru’s 250-meter Sky Deck
Restoration of Magadi Fort is underway
Progress on the restoration of Magadi Fort is already underway, with nearly 50% of the work completed. To facilitate smoother execution, a dedicated committee will soon be formed. At Kempegowda’s memorial site, located at his samadhi, 10 acres of land are being acquired, with 90% of the process now completed. Funds for the project have also been secured.
The proposed Urban Design College, which will admit approximately 300 students, is currently in talks with Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) to finalize its curriculum. In a bid to further honour Kempegowda, a Kempegowda Bhavan will be developed on five acres near Sumanahalli, with architects invited to submit design proposals.
Shivakumar emphasized the growing need for urban planners in Bengaluru. Graduates of the new college will be considered for roles in the Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) and municipal corporations. The project will be jointly funded by the Urban Development Department, Kempegowda Authority, and GBA.
Additionally, Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda will oversee the development of a theme park near the Kempegowda statue at Bengaluru airport.