For years, Bengaluru has experimented with single-window platforms, yet citizens still don’t know whom to approach for basic civic issues. Apps come and go, and problems are often marked as ‘resolved’ even when nothing has changed. Naresh Narasimhan, a well-known architect and Managing Partner at Venkataramanan Associates, said this while addressing a panel discussion on the second day of Designuru 5.0 hosted by IIID & BCIC.
“The real breakthrough lies in using what the city already has-its Namma Metro stations. With over 120 stations across Bengaluru, most with unused ground-floor space, these stations are ready-made hubs for public services. If we activate them, every citizen will have an accessible point of contact just a short walk or metro ride away,” he added. He also emphasized that the stations can serve as walk-in centres for complaints, neighbourhood governance, and community engagement.
Bengaluru’s long-standing challenge has been the lack of a clear, face-to-face interface for civic concerns, despite initiatives such as Bangalore One and various grievance apps. Issues related to drains, footpaths and traffic often leave citizens unsure of whom to contact, debated the other panellists in the panel discussion.
With the Greater Bengaluru Authority now bringing water, fire, electricity, transport and BBMP under a unified command led by Chief Commissioner Shri Maheshwar Rao, the city has an opportunity to streamline service delivery. Experts suggested that establishing integrated service hubs at the ward level is the next logical step. Since 123–130 Namma Metro stations already exist across the city many with vacant ground-floor retail areas as they offer an immediate, scalable solution. Converting these stations into integrated service and cultural hubs, along with space for RWAs and neighbourhood activities, can provide citizens with convenient, accessible centres for every civic need, while also reducing traffic through metro-led access.
Panellist, Shri Maheshwar Rao, IAS, Chief Commissioner, Greater Bengaluru Authority) said, “There is a growing crisis of trust between citizens and the systems meant to serve them, and until that gap is repaired, meaningful progress will remain slow. Projects are announced with fanfare but rarely delivered on time, leaving people disillusioned. What the city needs is transparency, consistent communication, and spaces where citizens and professionals can volunteer their expertise. At the same time, Bengaluru must reclaim its public spaces which are its lakes, walkways, parks and neighbourhood streets, so people can walk, gather, and live well within their localities. With the population set to double, sustainability and liveability must take centre stage. Better mobility, cleaner lakes, accessible public spaces, and responsible waste management are not luxuries; they are essential foundations for a healthier, more humane city.”
Shri L. K. Atheeq, IAS, Chairman, Bengaluru Business Corridor, who also participated in the panel discussion, added, “Bangalore needs to evolve into a network of vibrant, walkable micro-cities, each with its own public square, community spaces, and easy metro access—so that people can live and move within their own neighbourhoods. Our city lacks common gathering places, and creating these piazzas can rebuild local identity. Even a one-acre shared space can become a lively hub for culture, cafés, and community activity. Opening up existing parks, playgrounds, and public assets to citizens must go hand in hand with this shift toward neighbourhood-based urban life.”
MoU Between BCIC & IIID
Bangalore Chamber of Industry and Commerce (BCIC) and the Indian Institute of Interior Designers, Bangalore Regional Centre (IIID BRC) also formally signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), marking a significant step toward long-term collaboration. The MoU outlines joint efforts in curating Designuru from December 11–14, 2025, co-hosting the Antarya Design Awards in 2026, and working together on CSR initiatives such as “Code Studio.” As part of the event, BCIC held a panel discussion on ‘Bengaluru Infra-Woe to Wow!!’ to discuss high-level action points for making Bengaluru a better city.
Mr. Prashanth Gokhale, President, BCIC, said, “As BCIC enters its Golden Jubilee year, we stand on the strong foundation built by our visionary leaders and partners, whose dedication and foresight continue to inspire our mission of fostering innovation, infrastructure excellence, and design-led urban development in Karnataka. Together with our stakeholders, we remain committed to driving inclusive, sustainable growth that benefits industry, society, and the city at large. This milestone is not only a celebration of our legacy but also a reaffirmation of our responsibility to shape a more resilient, competitive, and future-ready Bengaluru. With renewed energy and purpose, we look forward to deepening collaborations, championing bold ideas, and catalysing new opportunities for the next generation.”
