The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has initiated an e-auction for 133 corner and intermediate sites located in various well-established layouts, with bidding open until 19 July and live auctions set to begin on 21 July. This initiative is intended to generate revenue while enhancing equitable access to urban land through an efficient and transparent digital platform.
The identified plots are situated in Anjanapura Township, JP Nagar Phase 9, Sir M Visvesvaraya, BTM 4th Stage, Banashankari 3rd Stage, Nagarabhavi 2nd Stage, HBR 1st Stage 2nd Block, Austin Town, Jakkur Arkavathi 7th Block, among others, and range in size from 600 sq ft to approximately 4,500 sq ft.
Offered on an ‘as-is-where-is’ basis, bidding commences at Rs 500 per sq m increments—a framework designed to facilitate access and encourage fiscal discipline in land distribution. Property experts recognize several advantages. The e-auction promotes decentralized transparency and maximizes revenue without the need for manual processes.
It is also advantageous for investors and homebuyers in search of well-ventilated, strategically located corner sites—highly desired for both residential and small-scale commercial purposes, echoing the robust sales observed in prior BDA auctions. These sites have consistently contributed to revenue increases: in January 2022, a BDA auction for 296 corner sites generated ₹133 crore—totaling ₹348 crore in bids.
The BTM and Visvesvaraya layouts recorded some of the highest bids, with one site selling for three times its base price. Such success stories highlight the appeal of corner plots, attributed to their natural light, ventilation, and development potential. However, critics warn that e-auctions may disadvantage average buyers who may lack awareness, digital skills, or sufficient liquidity, potentially exacerbating urban inequality.
Previous court rulings have also raised concerns: only corner and commercial plots are eligible for auction, while intermediary plots must be allocated to qualified applicants. This situation raises questions regarding access in mixed-use neighborhoods.
Subject matter experts indicate that the BDA must focus on geographic transparency to guarantee affordability. A 2023 investigation by Bengaluru Mirror uncovered that numerous bidders faced challenges in identifying plots due to the absence of geo-tagging, which could potentially restrict participation from non-local buyers.
The integration of maps and clear layouts could enhance accessibility. Importantly, the BDA also intends to fund essential urban infrastructure—such as stormwater drainage and water supply—through the revenues generated from these plots. Government sources suggest that reinvesting the proceeds into civic services may improve resilience in Bengaluru’s swiftly developing suburbs.
The digital format of the e-auction, which is part of Karnataka’s wider urban digitization initiative, facilitates efficient, auditable, and inclusive land allocation. Bidders will be required to deposit earnest money online, with a refundable security deposit needed upon registration.
Subsequent payments are anticipated in phases—25% initially, with the remainder in installments—while annual taxes will be due after registration. Nevertheless, there are concerns regarding the verification of plots. Some buyers have reported legal issues related to Arkavathi layouts, with builders allegedly marketing non-verified BDA plots at inflated prices.
The BDA’s recommendation to personally inspect and verify titles may assist in mitigating speculative problems. The BDA is anticipated to publish geo-location data and layout plans within the week. If these are fully integrated into e-auction platforms with visual aids, it could create a more equitable environment for informed consumers across various socio-economic levels.
Support services from registrars, legal aid organizations, and NGOs could further promote fair access. Beyond revenue generation, this initiative embodies broader societal objectives: sustainable urban development, equitable land access, and low-carbon cities. By encouraging compact, well-situated development in established layouts, it addresses urban sprawl—aligning with the environmental goals shared by urban planners.
