Bengaluru: In a major push towards the judicious use of its prime land resources, Karnataka govt has drawn up a mega plan to transform the 48.35-acre Karnataka Trade Promotion Organisation (KTPO) property in Whitefield into a world-class trade, exhibition and convention hub. Karnataka industries minister MB Patil, who inspected the KTPO premises on Tuesday along with India Trade Promotion Organisation (ITPO) chairperson Javed Ashraf, said state govt wants to unlock the full potential of the strategically located property and create facilities capable of hosting global trade events as well as mega cultural programmes.The plan assumes significance as KTPO, despite owning a sprawling property in one of Bengaluru’s prominent tech and industrial corridors, currently has limited facilities. Of the original 50 acres, 1.65 acres was given to Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Ltd (BMRCL), leaving 48.35 acres for development. “This is a multi-purpose project,” Patil said, adding that the vacant land would be used to develop modern exhibition halls, convention facilities, event spaces, parking and other amenities.As part of the larger plan, a five-acre parcel has been earmarked for a global-standard trade, exhibition and convention centre. Govt has directed design consultant RSP to rework the proposal after studying leading convention facilities in Mumbai and Delhi. “Our project should be better than the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai,” Patil said. The consultant has also been asked to examine the shortcomings of Delhi’s Bharat Mandapam and Yashobhoomi and ensure they are not replicated in Bengaluru.The proposed facility will have 10,000 sq m each on the ground and upper floors, providing a total built-up area of 20,000 sq m. It will include space for conventions, product launches, commercial exhibitions, trade events and mega music concerts, besides parking for around 500 cars. Govt is also looking at the optimal use of the existing exhibition halls, one of which was built in 2002 and the other in 2024. A decision is being considered on whether the older structure should be retained or redeveloped as part of the comprehensive master plan.Meanwhile, another 14-acre vacant parcel adjoining Kundalahalli Metro station and the main road is also set to be monetised. Govt has decided to appoint a transaction adviser to recommend the best development model for the strategically located land. With ITPO holding a 51% stake in KTPO and state govt holding the remaining 49%, the proposed redevelopment will require close coordination between the two entities.
