In response to rapid urban expansion and space constraints, the Karnataka government has announced plans to promote vertical growth in Bengaluru through a new housing ordinance. The move is part of a broader strategy to address the city’s growing population and limited land availability.
The proposed ordinance under the Karnataka Apartment Ownership and Management Act aims to streamline apartment governance while encouraging high-rise developments. Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar stated that Bengaluru can no longer sustain horizontal expansion due to land scarcity, making vertical growth a necessity.
The policy is expected to introduce reforms that improve transparency, accountability, and management within apartment complexes. It also seeks to empower resident associations and create a more structured framework for dispute resolution. Urban planners believe that such measures will help accommodate the city’s increasing population without further straining land resources.
Another key aspect of the policy is the potential increase in Floor Area Ratio (FAR), allowing developers to build taller structures. This could pave the way for self-contained residential hubs equipped with essential amenities, reducing dependence on long commutes and easing traffic congestion.
The announcement has been welcomed by apartment resident associations, who have long demanded better legal clarity and governance mechanisms. However, experts caution that infrastructure such as water supply, sewage systems, and road networks must keep pace with vertical expansion.
Overall, the initiative signals a transformative shift in Bengaluru’s urban planning approach, aiming to create a more sustainable and space-efficient city.
News as reported
