While the development work on the Dr K Shivarama Karanth Layout is ongoing, the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is progressing with plans to further expand the layout under the same designation. In a significant move, BDA is contemplating the acquisition of an additional 3,000 acres across 18 villages in Yelahanka and Bengaluru North taluk to build upon the success of the current phase.
This would position it as the second-largest housing project being undertaken by BDA. Previously, a final notification was issued for the acquisition of 3,837 acres and 5.25 guntas of land. Of this, 3,173 acres and 22.6 guntas have been successfully acquired without any legal challenges. On the land that has been acquired, BDA has established approximately 30,000 plots across nine blocks, encompassing a total layout area of about 63.05 lakh square meters. An estimated `1,800 crore has been invested in the project to date.
As this phase continues, the BDA issued a notification on May 5 to identify new land parcels for the expanded layout. A team of four land acquisition officers has been assigned the responsibility of collecting necessary data and pinpointing eligible land in collaboration with engineers and land surveyors.
The team has been directed to present a report that includes maps, land records, and comprehensive descriptions by May 10. An official remarked, “Most of the field survey has already been completed. Land identification and the requisite documentation have been submitted to the BDA.
A proposal will soon be presented to the state government.” Eighteen villages have been identified for potential acquisition, including Kondashettihalli, Lingarajasagara, Soladevanahalli, Chikkabanavara, Kempapura, Kasaghatapura, Kumbarahalli, Avalahalli, Mavallipura, JB Kaval, Lingarajapura, Mailappanahalli, Byalakere, Madhugirihalli, Shivakote, Muttugadahalli, Krishnarajapura, and Krishnarajasagara.
Notably, villages such as Soladevanahalli, Chikkabanavara, and JB Kaval are located near the proposed Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) corridor, rendering them strategically significant for expansion. The majority of the villages earmarked for expansion are situated within the jurisdictions of Yelahanka and Bengaluru North taluks. BDA officials emphasize that regions closer to the PRR will experience improved connectivity and are observing an increasing demand for residential plots.
As per BDA, approximately 85% of the work has been finalized in certain blocks, while other regions remain 30% unfinished. The installation of electric poles, road construction, underground drainage (UGD), water pipelines, and junction enhancements is currently in progress. Contractors have been directed to finalize all outstanding tasks within a three-month timeframe.
In spite of public disapproval regarding the haste to expand prior to the completion of the existing phase, BDA justifies this decision. “There is still undeveloped land in North Bengaluru, and the PRR will greatly enhance connectivity and demand. Thus, we must proceed promptly,” stated a senior official from BDA.
