In a significant move towards realizing the aspirations of numerous urban poor and middle-class families to acquire their own homes, the Karnataka Housing Board (KHB) has announced the acquisition of 315 acres in BM Kaval village, located near Kengeri.
This extensive residential project, designed to offer housing and residential plots for those without homes and those in need, was initiated with a preliminary notification released in the final week of June. Situated off Mysuru Road and accessible via NICE Road and the extended Purple Line of the Namma Metro, BM Kaval—an abbreviation for Badamanavarthekaval—has long been regarded as an underappreciated area with urban potential.
Through this housing initiative, the region is poised to become a central hub for EWS (economically weaker sections), LIG (low-income group), and MIG (middle-income group) housing units, supported by strong infrastructure. Officials are optimistic that the site’s connectivity will enhance its attractiveness. “This may draw more individuals, particularly from economically weaker sections and low-income and medium-income groups, assisting them in achieving their dream of homeownership in Bengaluru,” stated a senior official from KHB.
The acquisition process, governed by the Land Acquisition Act, permits a period of 60 days for landowners and other interested parties to voice objections or provide suggestions. During this time, landowners are prohibited from selling, leasing, or transferring ownership of the designated land.
The public notification has also cautioned against hindering surveyors or government officials, warning that legal action will be pursued against those who violate this directive. KHB commissioner Dayananda KA informed that the project will adhere to a 50:50 model—landowners will receive half of the developed plots as compensation, while the remaining portion will be allocated for the board’s housing initiative.
He further mentioned that the government has established an ambitious goal. “The government aims to provide 10,000 houses to the houseless in the state, and KHB will construct several residential complexes to accommodate the houseless in the city.”
As stated by KHB officials, the land encompasses three designated blocks of BM Kaval, which includes 41 acres of kharab land that is already owned by the government. The official remarked, “We will be acquiring 315 acres of land, which includes the 41 acres of kharab land that belongs to the government.”
