📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / LittleT889
Business
Karnataka's New 'AI City' Revealed as 2006 Failed Bidadi Township
✍️ Swarajya
🗓 30 Jul 2026, 12:10 PM
👁 3
The state’s latest urban development project, branded as AI City, is actually the abandoned Bidadi township that was launched in 2006 but never materialised.
India's state of Karnataka has unveiled its latest urban development initiative, rebranding the long-abandoned Bidadi township as the futuristic 'AI City'. The project, announced in 2024, aims to attract technology firms and investors with promises of smart infrastructure and high-tech amenities.
The original Bidadi township was launched in 2006 as a planned community near Bangalore, but the project stalled due to funding issues and lack of demand. The site remained largely undeveloped for years, with only a few residential plots sold.
Under the new branding, state officials claim that the area will be upgraded with modern utilities, digital connectivity, and AI-driven services. However, critics point out that the core infrastructure remains largely unchanged and question whether the rebranding will truly transform the site.
Local residents and potential buyers are wary, citing past failures and the need for transparent development plans. The Karnataka government has promised a detailed roadmap and has invited private partners to participate in the revitalisation.
The original Bidadi township was launched in 2006 as a planned community near Bangalore, but the project stalled due to funding issues and lack of demand. The site remained largely undeveloped for years, with only a few residential plots sold.
Under the new branding, state officials claim that the area will be upgraded with modern utilities, digital connectivity, and AI-driven services. However, critics point out that the core infrastructure remains largely unchanged and question whether the rebranding will truly transform the site.
Local residents and potential buyers are wary, citing past failures and the need for transparent development plans. The Karnataka government has promised a detailed roadmap and has invited private partners to participate in the revitalisation.