Bengaluru’s Expansion Plans Hit Roadblock: Land Acquisition Faces Fierce Opposition

Land Tussles Stall Bengaluru's Infrastructure Push

Land acquisition has surfaced as the most pressing challenge confronting major infrastructure proposals across Bengaluru and its surrounding regions. With close to 90,000 acres required for ambitious developments — including a second airport and multiple theme-based townships — resistance is intensifying from farmer communities and elected representatives alike.

Greater Bengaluru Township Faces Local Pushback

One of the key flashpoints is the proposed Greater Bengaluru Township in Bidadi, where 9,600 acres across 24 villages under Byramangala and Kanchanahalli gram panchayats are earmarked for acquisition. Bangalore Rural MP Dr CN Manjunath recently wrote to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah urging the government to abandon the plan, highlighting that the targeted land is fertile farmland, home to over 10 lakh trees and thousands of small-scale farmers.

Airport Proposal Also Hits Resistance

Meanwhile, the search for a second international airport in Bengaluru has further stirred tensions. With three sites shortlisted — two near Kanakapura Road and one near Solur — for a project requiring 5,000 acres, local MLAs have raised red flags. Nelamangala MLA Srinivasaiah N has voiced concerns on behalf of farmers, seeking intervention from the Chief Minister and Deputy CM DK Shivakumar.

State Ministers Respond, but Concerns Persist

Infrastructure development minister MB Patil clarified that the airport plan is still at a preliminary stage and assured stakeholders that any land acquisition will be handled “scientifically.” Yet, uncertainty continues to loom, with stakeholders awaiting the Airports Authority of India's inspection report.

KHB and BMRDA Projects Add to Pressure

Adding to the complexity, the Karnataka Housing Board has proposed five themed townships across Solur, Bidadi, Doddaballapur, Hoskote, and Dabaspet, demanding 2,000 more acres. Meanwhile, a revival of the 2006 BMRDA plan seeks to develop five more integrated townships — each needing 15,000 acres — in various locations. Separately, the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board has earmarked 2,000 acres for its Knowledge, Wellbeing and Innovation (KWIN) City near Hoskote.

Call for Balanced Development

Voicing a note of caution, Hoskote MLA Sharath Bachegowda emphasized the need for a “pragmatic outlook,” urging the state to strike a fine balance between rapid urban expansion and the protection of farmland and rural livelihoods.

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