BENGALURU: The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) undertook 14 demolition drives from July to December last year, reclaiming encroached properties valued at over ₹704.3 crore throughout the city.
These efforts led to the recovery of over 25 acres of encroached land across various regions, including South, North, and East Bengaluru. The BDA demolished unauthorized RCC buildings, sheds, compound walls, and industrial structures that had been illegally erected on lands designated for layouts, roads, and infrastructure projects.
The most significant recoveries occurred in JP Nagar 9th Phase, where approximately 12.5 acres, valued at around ₹370 crore, were reclaimed in three phases. Notable recoveries also took place in Jnanabharathi Layout (1 acre and 16 guntas, worth ₹153 crore), Kengeri Satellite Town (37,000 sq ft, worth ₹50 crore), and the HRBR and HBR layouts, which collectively accounted for over 26 guntas valued at nearly ₹35 crore.
A senior BDA official stated, “The drives were conducted after mandatory notices were issued, providing a minimum of seven days’ notice as required by law, along with public announcements. Nevertheless, many individuals disregarded the notices. No compensation will be given as these are illegal occupations, despite a grace period being granted on humanitarian grounds.”
“The reclaimed land will be allocated for future BDA projects, existing layouts, or auctioned to generate revenue, pending legal approvals. Properties that are clearly defined and independent will be auctioned, while those that cannot be separately identified will be utilized for layout formation,” the official added.
BDA chairman NA Haris mentioned, “We will remove any illegal occupation. Cases in court will only be acted upon after receiving appropriate directives. Currently, there are no specific new plans. Decisions on the use of land will follow its restoration to BDA. This is part of our ongoing responsibility to protect BDA property.”
