‘Infrastructure projects will be a priority area…’

‘Infrastructure projects will be a priority area…’
The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) too has a role to play in the development of Greater Bangalore. The Master Plan 2015 is before the State Government. M K Shankaralinge Gowda, Commissioner, BDA, shares some of the civic agency’s plans

The Times of india

What will BDA's role in the development of Greater Bangalore be?
We will continue to be a planning authority. We will approve formations of layouts, change in land use and regulate land use. We will develop all areas that come in our jurisdiction within Greater Bangalore. Infrastructure projects will be a priority area. We will take up all civic infrastructure projects that service our layouts in Greater Bangalore on priority.
What's new in the new comprehensive development plan - Master Plan 2015?
It has a flexible land use pattern. We will be bringing in the concept of multi-level car parking facilities in this plan. Also, there will be higher floor area ratios (FAR) available in metro areas. This promotes vertical growth in some areas. A higher FAR will also be allowed for slum development projects. We will also be putting in place regulations for better eco-friendly layouts. Our layouts will have more green spaces with large parks. In the green belt, we will allow development of only social infrastructure such as schools etc.
What is the position on the planned Peripheral Ring Road (PRR)?
Such a road has never been built here before. It will be an 8-lane road that will cost Rs 3,500 crores. It will be 300 feet wide with service lanes. This road will have spaces earmarked for transport hubs along the way. It will link all roads of Bangalore both horizontally and radially. We are in the process of acquisition of land. Preliminary notice has been sent and the final notification is expected to be sent in May. The consultancy is being finalised. The project is expected to take 36 months to complete. It will be taken up in two phases. This road will help the city grow better.
What is the latest on BDA sites?
Land parcels for development of new layouts have been included in the new comprehensive development plan. Land earmarked for sites will be developed after the plan has been finalised. In some parts we will provide plots for vertical growth too. While mostly it will be residential land, some commercial plots too will be developed. Future layouts will be located all around the city. They will be in the proximity of the Peripheral Ring Road with easy access from it. The rates will definitely be higher as we have to absorb higher infrastructure and development costs. Also, the 10 year moratorium on re-selling allotted land will continue to discourage investors and ensure sites are allotted to those who need a place to build a house for themselves. Once the government clears the new Master Plan we will invite applications for around 50,000 sites all around the city.
What are your plans for the coming years?
The BDA is expanding its activities. We will contribute to the well-being of the city and its residents. We will plan efficient layouts with more green spaces. Integrated living areas will reduce travel time and BDA will promote this concept.