MLA raises concerns over zoning in Greater Bangalore Expansion

MLA Suresh Kumar questions BBMP’s Greater Bangalore expansion, warning zoning rules like 40‑ft roads and large land earmarks could hurt housing equity

Senior legislator and former minister S. Suresh Kumar has written to civic authorities questioning the implications of recent urban planning decisions tied to the expansion of the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) into the Greater Bangalore Area (GBA).

The BBMP’s jurisdiction has steadily grown since 2008, absorbing multiple wards and most recently adding 110 more. With this expansion, the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) and BBMP have introduced new zoning rules, including the designation of “40‑foot roads” in several localities. While officials describe these measures as temporary, Kumar warns they could become permanent fixtures in municipal planning.

According to the document, the GBA covers approximately 741 square kilometers, of which 340 to 360 square kilometers — nearly 46 to 48 percent — are earmarked for specific uses. Kumar argues that such large allocations risk constraining land availability for housing and small businesses, particularly affecting middle‑class and economically weaker residents.
He further notes that the zoning changes may undermine affordable housing and limit opportunities for small property owners. “The current approach appears to prioritize rigid layouts over the needs of ordinary citizens,” the MLA observed, urging planners to reconsider the balance between infrastructure and inclusivity.

Also Read:Bank server glitch triggers chaos at Bengaluru Metro stations

The letter calls for clarity from both BDA and BBMP on how these regulations will be implemented and whether they align with long‑term urban development goals. Kumar emphasizes that while expansion is inevitable, planning must remain sensitive to social equity.

Urban experts say the debate highlights a broader challenge: balancing rapid growth with sustainable, citizen‑friendly policies. As Bengaluru continues to expand, the outcome of this discussion could shape the city’s future housing landscape and determine how equitably land is distributed among its residents.

Also Read: Gold theft inside Vidhana Soudha: Security lapses exposed at Karnataka’s power centre