By South Matters Karnataka Desk
New Delhi, June 11: The DK Shivakumar PM Meeting focused heavily on Bengaluru’s infrastructure needs as Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar submitted an 18-point charter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi seeking central assistance for major projects across the state.
During the meeting in New Delhi, Shivakumar requested a ₹26,000 crore special package for Bengaluru, along with approvals for metro expansion, suburban rail connectivity, irrigation projects, healthcare infrastructure, and regional development initiatives.
The DK Shivakumar PM Meeting comes at a crucial time as Karnataka pushes for faster infrastructure development to support Bengaluru’s rapid growth and strengthen economic competitiveness.
DK Shivakumar PM Meeting Seeks ₹26,000 Crore for Bengaluru
The biggest demand during the DK Shivakumar PM Meeting was a ₹26,000 crore special grant for Bengaluru.
According to the Chief Minister, the city requires substantial investment to upgrade roads, public transport, urban infrastructure, and civic amenities. Furthermore, Bengaluru’s role as India’s technology and innovation hub was highlighted while seeking greater central support.
The state government argued that rapid urbanization has increased pressure on infrastructure and requires urgent intervention.
Metro Expansion and Rail Connectivity Prioritized
The DK Shivakumar PM Meeting also focused on expanding Bengaluru’s transport network.
The Chief Minister sought approval for BMRCL Phase-3, a 37.12-km metro corridor estimated to cost ₹9,700 crore. Additionally, Karnataka requested speedy approval for the revised estimates of Namma Metro Phase-2, whose project cost has risen from ₹26,405 crore to ₹40,425 crore.
Furthermore, Shivakumar urged the Centre to support Phase-3A, a proposed 37.8-km underground metro corridor connecting Sarjapur and Hebbal.
The meeting also covered the Bengaluru Suburban Rail Project, the Bengaluru-Mumbai High-Speed Rail Corridor, and a proposed Regional Rapid Transit System connecting Bengaluru with Mysuru, Kanakapura, Tumakuru, Chikkaballapur, and Kolar.
DK Shivakumar PM Meeting Raises STRR Demand
A key infrastructure request involved the Bengaluru Satellite Town Ring Road (STRR) project.
Although the project received approval from the Public Private Partnership Appraisal Committee in January 2025, final Union Cabinet approval remains pending. Therefore, Shivakumar requested immediate clearance to accelerate implementation.
Officials believe the STRR project will significantly improve regional connectivity and reduce traffic congestion around Bengaluru.
Irrigation and Regional Development Projects Discussed
Beyond Bengaluru, the DK Shivakumar PM Meeting included demands related to irrigation and regional development.
The Chief Minister sought support for the Mekedatu project, Upper Bhadra Project, Kalasa-Banduri Nala Project, and other irrigation schemes. Moreover, he requested the release of ₹5,300 crore announced for the Upper Bhadra Project in the Union Budget.
Shivakumar also called for an annual ₹25,000 crore package for Kalyana Karnataka under Article 371(J).
AIIMS Raichur and Finance Commission Grants
Healthcare infrastructure featured prominently in the discussions. The Chief Minister requested the establishment of an AIIMS in Raichur to strengthen medical services in the Hyderabad-Karnataka region.
Additionally, he sought the release of ₹2,860 crore pending under the 15th Finance Commission grants for gram panchayats.
As Karnataka continues to pursue major infrastructure and development projects, the outcome of the DK Shivakumar PM Meeting could play a significant role in shaping the state’s future growth agenda.