The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has made a significant advancement by issuing a global tender for the development of the Revised Master Plan (RMP-2041), which aims to establish a new and comprehensive vision for the future of the city.
This initiative follows the shelving of the previous RMP-2031, which faced extensive criticism due to its lack of scientific support, insufficient stakeholder involvement, and its inability to address the city’s rapid and unstructured growth. Interested bidders have until September 30 to submit their proposals.
According to BDA officials, the new plan will not only rectify the deficiencies of its predecessor but also provide a robust foundation for managing Bengaluru’s growing population, increasing vehicular traffic, and urban sprawl. As part of the preparatory efforts, a sophisticated 3D drone survey is currently underway, following a previously awarded tender.
This survey aims to deliver a detailed spatial analysis of the city and its surroundings, encompassing an extensive area of 1,240 square kilometers, which includes 800 square kilometers within BBMP limits and 440 square kilometers under BDA’s jurisdiction. The drone survey will produce vital planning tools such as a base map, land use map, ortho-rectified images, and digital elevation models to aid in the creation of the new master plan.
The last approved master plan for Bengaluru, RMP 2015, was developed in 2005. The forthcoming RMP 2041 is designed to provide a more data-driven, inclusive, and future-oriented framework. A key feature of the new plan will be the incorporation of transit-oriented development (TOD), an innovative urban planning model that emphasizes the creation of walkable, mixed-use communities centered around high-quality public transportation.
This model seeks to alleviate increasing vehicular congestion and improve overall livability. Initially, the drone survey was to be carried out by the Karnataka State Remote Sensing Application Centre. However, following a change in the state government, the BDA opted to open the project to private entities through a global tender, with the goal of introducing advanced expertise and enhancing efficiency.
L Shashikumar, a member of BDA’s town planning committee, stated: “It is essential to conduct thorough evaluations of various land uses, ranging from agriculture and housing to commercial areas and revenue lands, in order to develop a comprehensive plan. The formulation of RMP 2041 will encompass several phases, which will include consultations with stakeholders, public objections, and revisions based on the feedback received. The foundational map is nearly complete.
At this stage, we must develop detailed land use maps and incorporate elements such as expanded green spaces, new road networks, and transit-oriented policies.” Once the draft plan is finalized, it will be published in the gazette, allowing the public a period of 60 days to submit suggestions and raise objections. These contributions will be evaluated and integrated prior to the publication of the final plan. “Our goal is to finalize the entire process by mid-2026,” Shashikumar affirmed, highlighting that BDA will oversee each phase to guarantee transparency and timely implementation.
