Startup Originals Team
Karnataka is charting a bold new path for urban development with the launch of a sprawling 9,000-acre township near Bengaluru, touted as India’s first and largest AI-powered city. Designed as a modern “work-live-play” destination, the Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township (GBIT) promises sustainable infrastructure, vibrant economic opportunities, and seamless connectivity. Announced by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, GBIT is envisioned as Bengaluru’s second central business district, setting the stage for a future-ready urban transformation.
Planned as a Second CBD: Location & Scope
Situated about 30 km from Bengaluru, in Bidadi, GBIT aims to become the state’s next major business hub. Spanning nearly 9,000 acres, the township sets aside over 2,000 acres exclusively for AI-driven industries and ancillary businesses, positioning itself as the region’s future-forward economic engine.
“Work-Live-Play” Model & Job Creation:
Embracing the “work-live-play” ethos, GBIT integrates residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, schools, hospitals, and cultural centres within a single precinct. The development is projected to generate lakhs of jobs across technology, artificial intelligence, startups, and services sectors, backed by a “local-first” policy ensuring opportunities for Karnataka’s youth, and new skilling centers will prepare them for AI-focused industries.
Connectivity & Green Infrastructure:
A centerpiece of the plan is a 300-meter-wide business corridor, seamlessly connecting GBIT to major routes like STRR, NH-209, NH-275, and NICE Road. Alongside efficient transport, over 1,100 acres are devoted to parks, open spaces, and revitalized natural features, making the township one of India’s greenest urban areas.
Technology & Sustainability Features:
GBIT pledges to be a zero-carbon, zero-waste, zero-traffic model city, supported by:
- AI-based management of utilities like traffic, energy, water, and waste
- Smart sensors and digital twin technologies
- Clean energy usage and advanced public transport with links to Metro Phase-3 and suburban rail
The township’s sustainability blueprint reflects a focus on high-quality, eco-conscious urban living.
Funding & Timeline:
The project carries a ₹20,000 crore budget, comprising ₹2,950 crore from the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region Development Authority (BMRDA) and ₹17,500 crore mobilized via state-backed financial institution loans. GBIT is on track for completion within three years.
Land Acquisition & Farmer Support:
GBIT spans land across nine villages, covering around 8,493 acres, including 6,731 acres of private land, 750 acres of government land, plus about 1,012 acres of waterbody areas. To ensure fair and transparent compensation, the government has adopted a model resettlement plan aligned with the 2013 Land Acquisition Act, offering:
- Annual annuities of ₹30,000-₹50,000 per acre until full compensation or developed land is provided
- ₹25,000 annually for landless families
- Additional benefits like housing sites, education/job certificates, and employment support
Deputy CM Shivakumar emphasized the partnership approach, assuring funds are ready, “We are ready with funds” for compensation, and noting that over 70% of landowners have already sought compensation.
The land measurement and certification process starts on September 11, 2025, expected to last 90 days; final acquisition notifications are due in December 2025, with compensation paid within 30 days thereafter, and developed sites to follow within a year.
Reviving Nature: Byramangala Lake & Waterway Projects
A core sustainability initiative includes rejuvenating Byramangala Lake, allocating ₹750 to ₹1,000 crore for lakefront parks, wetlands, and establishing a 100 MLD sewage treatment plant. This will serve as a vital green lung for the township.
Conclusion:
The Greater Bengaluru Integrated Township (GBIT) represents a landmark transformation for India’s urban future, blending cutting-edge AI technologies, large-scale sustainability, economic growth, and equitable community engagement. By harmonizing infrastructure, environment, and inclusive opportunity, GBIT stands to become a pioneering model for smart-city development.
