Karnataka Govt Picks Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout for Iconic Sky Deck

Bengaluru — The Karnataka government has finalized Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout in Kengeri as the location for Bengaluru’s ambitious 250-metre sky deck project. This marks a strategic shift from the earlier proposed site in Hemmigepura, which was dropped due to aviation safety concerns and complications with land ownership along the NICE corridor.

Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar announced that the 25-acre parcel owned by the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) was chosen for its clear title, feasibility, and proposed metro connectivity. The sky deck aims to become a major city landmark, offering panoramic views of Bengaluru and attracting both residents and tourists.

Estimated to cost ₹500 crore, the project will include visitor amenities such as food courts and play areas. Austria-based architectural firm Coop Himmelb(l)au has been commissioned to design the iconic structure.

Public opinion remains divided. While many welcome the sky deck as a bold step toward modern urban aesthetics and tourism, others have voiced concerns about prioritizing such a high-budget project over essential civic needs like road maintenance and solid waste management.

In parallel, the government also plans to float tenders for the much-anticipated tunnel road project in Bengaluru. The first phase will involve the development of a single tunnel, with strategic planning to ensure heritage zones such as Vidhana Soudha remain unaffected.

Updates were also shared on the proposed 114-kilometre elevated corridor, which is aimed at easing traffic congestion and improving access to Kempegowda International Airport.

The sky deck initiative is part of a broader vision to transform Bengaluru’s urban landscape with iconic infrastructure and enhanced mobility solutions.