Karnataka: Start course in town planning, Shivakumar tells VTU

Bengaluru: Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar has asked the Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU) to start an undergraduate programme in urban town planning, which he claimed would prepare a "new generation of professionals" to face future challenges.

In a letter to VTU vice-chancellor, Shivakumar suggested that the new course can be launched at the Government Sri Krishnarajendra Silver Jubilee Technological Institute (SKSJTI). 

"Establishing this course at SKSJTI will not only strengthen the state's capacity for structured urban growth, but also prepare a new generation of professionals equipped to address the evolving challenges in urban infrastructure, planning and policy," Shivakumar, who is also Bengaluru City Development minister, stated.

In a tweet, Shivakumar said the new programme would "elevate Karnataka on a global scale as an incubator for urban planners." He added, "The future of our urban spaces depends on how well we integrate planning, policy, and people. This is our moment to lay that foundation and shape a more sustainable and inclusive tomorrow."