In a major initiative, the Karnataka government plans to launch India's first and largest Artificial Intelligence (AI) integrated city at Bidadi, about
30 km from Bengaluru. The Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township (GBIT) will span 9,000 acres and serve as the state's next business hub. Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Thursday (September 4) announced the launch of the township. With a focus on AI-driven industries, the deputy chief minister stressed that the city is expected to create lakhs of new jobs in several sectors. During a press conference in Bengaluru South district, Deputy CM Shivakumar unveiled the GBIT logo, saying that it will be “India’s first and largest integrated township”.
Here's what it will feature
Work-Live-Play model
The AI-powered township will be designed around the "work-live-play" model. Shivakumar announced that it will offer a seamless ecosystem for businesses and communities, making it the next central business hub of Bengaluru. The project is expected to be completed within three years.
Boost in jobs and opportunities
The project will also create lakhs of jobs across the IT, AI industries, startups, and services. Moreover, it will have a focus on 'local-first employment policy', which will make Karnataka's youth a priority.
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Reduce congestion in Bengaluru
The GBIT is also aimed at reducing congestion in Bengaluru, as the project will also shift major businesses outside the city. The has been known for traffic problems, with people posting and complaining on social media.
The project does seem like a relief for Bengaluru people, as well as a hope for less traffic.
Walk-to-work culture
The name 'walk-to-work' culture itself means living in an urban setting, where business and commercial districts are located within residential areas for a better commute. It helps people to walk to their workplaces, making it easier for them, while also reducing costs.
Under the GBIT, over 1,100 acres of green spaces and parks will be constructed for greener urban environments. Additionally, it will also be home to residential clusters, schools, hospitals, and cultural centres.
“The township will be built with world-class infrastructure, but we are equally focused on sustainability. Quality of life will be enhanced with housing, healthcare, education, and cultural spaces,” Shivakumar said.
What's in it for farmers?
The Karnataka government has positioned farmers and landowners as partners in the GBIT project. Under this, the landowners will receive annuities from Rs 30,000 to Rs 50,000 per acre per year. They will get the money until compensation or developed sites are handed over.
Meanwhile, landless families will be receiving Rs 25,000 annually, the deputy chief minister said. “GBIT will have the state’s most transparent and farmer-friendly acquisition model. Landowners will not have to run around for documents; all revenue records of the nine villages have been digitised. Farmers are partners, not just stakeholders,” Shivakumar added.
Moreover, along with these benefits, Shivakumar said that the government has committed Rs 750-1000 crores for Bairamangala lake restoration and lakefront development. Notably, wetlands and parks will be built around the lake to make it the city's lung space.
