Bengaluru, Nov. 17:
Letter of Intent Strengthens Urban Collaboration Between Bengaluru and Melbourne
The City of Melbourne, Australia, has expressed its interest in collaborating with the Greater Bengaluru Authority in the areas of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive urban development. In this regard, a Letter of Intent was formally presented today at Taj West End.
The Lord Mayor of Melbourne, Nicholas Reece, presented the Letter of Intent to the Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Development Department, Government of Karnataka, Tushar Giri Nath, and the Chief Commissioner of the Greater Bengaluru Authority, Maheshwar Rao.
With the aim of strengthening cooperation between the “Sister Cities,” both cities have agreed to explore collaboration in the following key areas:
1. Urban Innovation and Smart Cities
2. Technology and Innovation Ecosystems
3. Sustainability and Climate Resilience
4. Education and Knowledge Exchange
5. Cultural and Sporting Exchange
Speaking on the occasion, Tushar Giri Nath, Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Development Department, said that systematic knowledge sharing and exchange of experiences between Melbourne and Bengaluru will contribute significantly to the growth and development of both cities.
Maheshwar Rao, Chief Commissioner of the Greater Bengaluru Authority, stated, “This letter of intent strengthens mutual learning and cooperation. It will greatly support ongoing and future urban development initiatives.”
Lord Mayor Nicholas Reece expressed that both cities look forward to developing AI-driven urban solutions that foster innovation and growth through collaboration and exchange of expertise.
A presentation on the functions of the GBA and city corporations, along with ongoing and upcoming development projects in Bengaluru, was showcased during the event. The Lord Mayor appreciated the systems and efforts of the GBA and the city corporations.
The event was attended by Melbourne’s Deputy Lord Mayor Roshena Campbell, Bengaluru Central City Corporation Commissioner Rajendra Cholan, BWSSB Chairman Dr. Ram Prasath Manohar, representatives from the City of Melbourne, and other senior officials.
