Urban mobility, cyber safety key priorities for Bengaluru’s future growth: Karnataka minister Priyank Kharge

Bengaluru, June 19 (IANS) Karnataka Minister for Home, Information Technology, Biotechnology and E-Governance, Priyank Kharge, on Friday identified urban mobility, cyber safety and sustainable urban development as the top priorities for Bengaluru’s next phase of growth, emphasising the need for long-term solutions to strengthen the city’s position as a global hub for technology, innovation and investment.

Speaking at the Integrated Workspaces Forum 2026, organised by the “Corporate Council for Research and Education in Real Estate Facilities Management and Corporate Real Estate” (CCiRE FM & CRE) in partnership with Bhartiya Urban, Kharge outlined his vision for building a future-ready urban ecosystem that supports economic growth while enhancing the quality of life of citizens.

Participating in a fireside chat and interactive question-and-answer session with industry leaders, commercial real estate developers, workplace strategists, technology innovators and sustainability experts, the Minister highlighted the importance of balancing rapid urban expansion with sustainable and inclusive development.

“Urban mobility, cyber safety and sustainable urban development are critical to Bengaluru’s continued growth and competitiveness. As our city expands and attracts greater investment, talent and innovation, we must focus on creating efficient mobility systems, strengthening cyber resilience and building sustainable infrastructure that enhances quality of life for citizens,” Kharge said.

Describing mobility as one of Bengaluru’s most pressing challenges, the Minister noted that the city is home to nearly 1.5 crore people and more than 1.25 crore vehicles.

He stressed the need for integrated, technology-enabled and data-driven mobility solutions to improve connectivity, reduce congestion and support future growth.

Kharge also flagged cybercrime as a growing concern in an increasingly digital economy, particularly as Bengaluru continues to strengthen its position among the world’s leading technology and innovation ecosystems.

He called for greater cyber awareness, stronger resilience and coordinated efforts to tackle emerging digital threats.

On the city’s long-term development, the Minister said Bengaluru’s growth must remain sustainable, inclusive and future-ready.

While the city continues to attract global investment, talent and innovation, he stressed the importance of resilient infrastructure, careful planning and sustainable urban solutions to improve livability.

The discussion also focused on the role of integrated workspaces in shaping future cities and economies.

Participants explored how commercial real estate, workplace strategy, technology and sustainability can contribute to innovation, productivity, talent attraction and economic growth.

Kharge highlighted Karnataka’s efforts to strengthen its innovation-led economy through support for startups, deep-tech entrepreneurship, workforce skilling and global innovation partnerships.

He also referred to initiatives such as Elevate Next, sustainable digital infrastructure, evolving data centre ecosystems and circular economy opportunities as key components of the state’s growth strategy.

The Integrated Workspaces Forum 2026 brought together policymakers, industry leaders, technology experts, urban planners and sustainability professionals to discuss the future of work, infrastructure and urban development, while promoting dialogue on building resilient, globally competitive and sustainable urban ecosystems.

–IANS

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