Maps shows that 25% of Karnataka’s population lives in Bengaluru

A recently circulated population density map has reignited discussions about the heavy concentration of Karnataka's population in Bengaluru. The map, shared by Siddharth Petare of the MapsDaily social media page, suggests that around 25 percent of the state's population resides in the Bengaluru metropolitan area, potentially positioning it as India’s third most populous city.

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The finding has prompted concerns about the growing pressure on Bengaluru and the need for developing other urban centers across the state. Responding to the data on social media platform X, a user highlighted the “striking concentration” of people in Bengaluru. While cities such as Mysuru, Hubli, Belagavi, and Mangaluru also have considerable populations, large parts of Karnataka, particularly in the Western Ghats and Malenadu regions, remain sparsely inhabited. 

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A post shared by Siddharth Petare (@themapsdaily)

"Interesting but not surprising map. Apart from Bengaluru, Mysore & surroundings, Davanagere-Shivamogga, Hubli-Belgavi stretch, Mangalore, Ballary, Raichur, Kalburgi, and Bidar are other major places with significant populations. But in the Coastal and large parts of Malenadu from Uttara Kannada to Kodagu, only Mangalore stands out as a major urban center. More investment and job creation in Mangalore, Davanagere, Hubli, and Kalburgi are needed for regional balance and to ease Bengaluru’s burden," the user said.

Another user stressed the necessity of new cities, suggesting, “Karnataka needs more cities. Ideally, select towns near existing urban areas for affordable land and Greenfield development.”