BDA must reclaim vacant plots from non-performing developers, says legislator

N.A. Haris, a senior legislator, has urged the Bangalore Development Authority to enforce stricter accountability measures against landowners who hold BDA plots without initiating construction activities. Speaking on the issue of housing delays in the city, Haris emphasized that vacant sites represent a significant wastage of valuable urban land that could otherwise be utilized for residential development.

The legislator's remarks come amid growing concerns over incomplete housing projects and undeveloped plots within BDA layouts across Bangalore. Many site allottees have reportedly held onto properties for extended periods without commencing building work, contributing to the city's persistent housing shortage.

Haris suggested that the BDA should implement a time-bound policy requiring owners to begin construction within a specified period or face forfeiture of their allotments. Such measures, he argued, would accelerate housing supply and ensure efficient utilization of developable land in the rapidly expanding city.

The BDA, which oversees planned residential and commercial layouts in Bangalore, has previously grappled with enforcement challenges in compelling allottees to complete construction projects on schedule. The legislator's proposal reflects growing pressure on the authority to take decisive action against defaulting property owners and streamline the housing development process in Karnataka's capital.