BBMP's absurd plots leave locals fuming

BBMP's absurd plots leave locals fuming
By: B V Shiva Shankar Date: 2010-05-21 Place: Bangalore




Demolitions undertaken by civic body to make Puttenahalli Tank Bund Road idening possible leave behind plots too small to be used in any way

Not everyone is upbeat with the BBMP's decision to widen the 30-ft Puttenahalli Tank Bund Road that connects Rajiv Gandhi Road to Puttenahalli Road to 80-ft.

Several buildings have been demolished to make way for the road and left behind plots as small as 150 square-ft to 240 square-ft that can't be used in any way.

While the residents Puttenahalli in JP Nagar are not opposing the development work, they are wondering what to do with the piece of land they will be left with after their houses are demolished.


Residents of Puttenahalli in JP Nagar are upset over notice issued by the civic body.


"Most sites on this stretch are 30X40 ft.

After the widening of the road, we will be left with palm-size plots. Why don't they take this small stretch as well," said Dr Sudindra, a resident, who stands to lose his house to the road widening.

BBMP officials say they understand the problem but can't think of an equitable solution.

V Srinivasamurthy, executive engineer, BBMP, said, "We have received memoranda on this subject.

We know it is absurd to leave a small patch of land after demolition because neither the civic body nor the plot-owner can use it.

We will figure out a solution once all the complaints are in. We have already proposed to the government that the plot-owners should be compensated for the sites, including the leftover stretch."

The BBMP has offered to compensate plot owners with Transferable Development Rights that can be used to add floor space to existing or new buildings over and above what is normally allowed.

The civic body has also offered cash compensation for the building that does not include the leftover stretch.

"I think the problem will be solved once we get the government's nod to our proposal. The residents need not be worried," said Srinivasamurthy.

Many residents have however questioned the need for the road widening. "When a parallel road of 60-ft is available, why have they chosen this road?" wondered Sudindra.

"The BBMP obviously wants to spare big apartment complexes like Brigade Millennium that come up on the way."

Rubbishing the charges, Srinivasamurthy, said, "Please don't read much in to this. Let me assure you that the interests of the residents will be protected."