Rs 2 Crore Approved for Toy Park and Silk Museum on Bengaluru Mysuru Expressway

The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways has approved the acquisition of land to set up a dedicated Toy Park and a Silk Museum along the Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari officially sanctioned the Rs 2 crore allocation required for the land acquisition process. Gadkari directed highway and ministry officials to complete the acquisition formalities promptly and begin execution of the project at the earliest date.

The project is aimed at providing a major push to revive the iconic toy-making industry of Channapatna, as well as showcasing the rich silk heritage of Ramanagara. The decision follows a noticeable reduction in tourist footfall through Channapatna after the opening of the expressway, which directly impacted the traditional toy trade. The new Toy Park will provide local artisans with permanent spaces to display and sell their traditional crafts, aiming to re-engage domestic and international travellers while generating fresh employment opportunities across the area.

Adjacent to the craft facility, the Silk Museum will focus on highlighting Ramanagara’s established identity as a major silk-producing region. Plans for the museum include curated exhibits on Karnataka’s historical connection to silk, live demonstrations showing step-by-step silk production, and specialized information centres tailored for local silk reelers and farmers.

To serve commuters traveling along the Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway, the project site will also feature essential modern traveller amenities. The ministry confirmed that the premises will include designated parking spaces, restaurants, and rest facilities for long-distance commuters and visiting tourists.