Experts delve into critical role of urban planning in shaping Mysuru’s future

Experts emphasize strategic planning for Mysuru's growth, addressing infrastructure challenges and the need for sustainable urban development.

Experts stressed the importance of strategic planning to manage Mysuru’s rapid expansion and delved into the implications of unplanned development.

At a workshop on ‘Greater Mysuru: Issues and Challenges’ conducted by the School of Planning and Architecture (SPA), the University of Mysore, here on Saturday, the discussions also centered around infrastructure constraints that were contributing to chaotic growth amidst unbridled urban sprawl.

The workshop was jointly organised by the Institute of Town Planners, India, Mysuru Regional Centre, and Karnataka Regional Chapter, Bengaluru.

M.C. Shashikumar, Additional Director of the Department of Town and Country Planning, highlighted the strain placed on Mysuru’s infrastructure due to urban growth and an exploding population.

He said essential services such as garbage management, underground drainage (UGD), and drinking water supply are under pressure, necessitating significant investments in urban infrastructure.

“Mysuru’s growth is inevitable, especially as Bengaluru’s congestion drives people to seek a better quality of life here,” he said, pointing out that improved connectivity has brought down the travel time between the two cities to as little as 90 minutes.

He, however, warned that unless planned expansion keeps pace with growth, Mysuru could face the same infrastructural bottlenecks as Bengaluru.