BDA goes digital: Major overhaul aims to make Bengaluru’s planning body citizen-friendly

Bengaluru’s planning authority takes up large-scale reforms, from digital operations to legal clean-up, in a move to become faster, transparent, and more citizen-focused.

The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has begun a comprehensive modernisation drive to transform how the city’s top planning agency functions. Long criticised for delays and poor accessibility, BDA is now pushing through a complete operational overhaul to become a faster, more citizen-friendly organisation.

Also Read:BMTC electric bus accidents soar; Ramalinga Reddy to hold emergency review meeting today

At the heart of the revamp is a digital transformation plan that will make every record, from construction approvals to site allotment papers, available online by January 2026. The authority has started digitising old files, layouts, and property documents, ensuring that once uploaded, data cannot be tampered with or deleted. Officials say this end-to-end electronic system will help cut out manipulation and improve accountability in land management.

The authority has also turned its focus to long-pending legal disputes. Currently, BDA is involved in 4,892 court cases, many of which date back decades. Most are related to land acquisition, site allotments, and ownership disputes. The new reform includes appointing qualified advocates, revising the legal fee structure, and tracking each case closely to ensure faster settlements. Around 60 to 70 old cases have already been closed in the last few months, marking a visible shift in efficiency.

Also Read:BDA begins redevelopment of old complexes; Indiranagar, RT Nagar, Vijayanagar first to go

To directly connect with citizens, BDA has launched a round-the-clock grievance helpline (9483166622) and a WhatsApp complaint service. Every registered complaint will be reviewed within 30 days, and unresolved issues will be addressed at monthly open houses in the presence of senior officials. These meetings have already helped settle disputes that had dragged on for years, giving citizens an avenue for face-to-face resolution.

Another major focus area is public awareness. BDA is planning a citywide campaign to educate property buyers on identifying approved, litigation-free layouts to prevent fraud and disputes. Officials say the goal is to make all BDA-approved properties easily verifiable online, building trust among homebuyers.