Karnataka's KWIN City to host 5 lakh residents, top foreign educational institutions

KWIN City envisions creating a vibrant, green metropolis designed to accommodate 5 lakh residents.

The design for Karnataka's ambitious Knowledge, Wellbeing, and Innovation (KWIN) City, which envisions a futuristic metropolis, was unveiled in Bengaluru on September 26.

CM Siddaramaiah, who announced the plan, said that KWIN City envisions creating a vibrant, green metropolis designed to accommodate five lakh residents. KWIN City will have a solar farm spanning 465 acres, capable of generating 0.69 million MWh to meet its entire energy needs.

Officials said that KWIN City won’t face water shortages during the summer. "KWIN City will harness 50 percent of its water requirements through advanced rainwater harvesting system. An additional 20 percent supplied by borewells will help ensure a sustainable and self-sufficient water supply," said an official from the state commerce and industries department.

Also, read: Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah to unveil futuristic 'KWIN City' plan today

KWIN City comprises four key districts: Knowledge, Health, Innovation, and Research. "The synergy among these districts will not only foster economic growth but also drive groundbreaking advancements across various sectors," Siddaramaiah said.

The CM said that KWIN City is not just a project; it is a testament to our commitment to excellence, sustainability, and the well-being of citizens. "As a planned city, KWIN offers a modern, sustainable lifestyle by integrating state-of-the-art technology with eco-friendly infrastructure, setting an example for smart cities of the future with self-sufficient water and electricity systems," the CM added.

Also, read: Karnataka's KHIR-City likely to generate Rs 40,000 crore investment, 1 lakh jobs; to be launched on Sept 26

KWIN City will have Knowledge, Health, Innovation and Research districts.“With a dedicated Knowledge hub, KWIN City aspires to establish a premier education center featuring modern curricula and top national and international institutions," said Karnataka Large & Medium Industries minister MB Patil.

"KWIN city aims to attract the top 500 foreign educational institutions to establish campuses in India by leveraging UGC regulations. This initiative will foster academia-industry partnerships, propelling Karnataka to the forefront of global education" said Patil.

The city will also feature a Life Sciences Park, positioning KWIN City as Asia’s leading academic medical hub and shaping the future of healthcare by attracting top national and international hospitals, Patil said.

Patil said the Innovation District will cater to emerging themes in sunrise sectors such as Life Sciences, Future Mobility, Semiconductors, Advanced Materials, Advanced Manufacturing, Aerospace, Defence, and Space Technology.

"The Research District will focus on enhancing biopharmaceutical and scientific research, incorporating cutting-edge technology to establish clinical trial centers and research labs," said Patil.

“Karnataka has long been the intellectual powerhouse of India. With more than 50 universities, 230 engineering colleges, and 1,700 ITIs, our state boasts one of the largest pools of knowledge in the country. These centers of learning are not just institutions; they are catalysts of change that continue to fuel our state's growth,” Patil said.

Monorail, e-buses

A senior official said that KWIN city will have  districts dedicated to universities, hospitals, R&D centers, a vibrant arts and culture scene, sports and entertainment venues. "Around 70% of the city's water demand will be met through rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and an interconnected network of lakes, tanks, and reservoirs linked by canals. 45% of the land area is designated for open parks, lakes, and water bodies" said an official

"All of the city's energy needs will be supplied by a 485-acre solar grid, with provisions for transitioning to cleaner energy sources in the future. Waste will be managed through a controlled incineration facility. It also prioritises public transport, including Monorail, electric buses, pedestrian paths, and bicycle lanes, within the framework of the 15-minute city concept," the official added.

Patil said that KWIN City will be a blueprint for sustainable urban living. “With its ‘walk-to-work’ model, residents will enjoy a seamless blend of professional and personal life, significantly reducing their carbon footprint. KWIN city will be equipped with modern amenities that reflect the highest standards of living—state-of-the-art infrastructure, green spaces, renewable energy solutions, and digital connectivity that will define future cities,” Patil added.

KWIN City will be located between Dabaspet and Doddaballapur, 45-minute drive from Bengaluru Airport, 50 km from the city center, and 5 km from the Bengaluru-Pune Greenfield Expressway. “The city boasts meticulously planned intra- and inter-transport systems, reducing congestion and enhancing convenience, with seamless connectivity through the Bangalore-Hubli-Mumbai Express rail route and proximity to National Highways 44 and 648,” a statement from the Industries department said.

Also, read: Karnataka govt’s KHIR City to come up 60 Km from Bengaluru, first phase on 500 acres