The Karnataka government’s proposal to permit taller residential buildings on mid-sized plots has reignited debate over Bengaluru’s future, with supporters viewing it as a boost for housing and critics warning of mounting pressure on the city’s already strained infrastructure.
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar recently announced that buildings on plots measuring around 2,400 sq ft could be allowed to rise up to 21 metres, or roughly six floors. The move comes alongside relaxed setback norms and a one-time exemption allowing certain property owners to obtain electricity connections without an Occupancy Certificate (OC).
Relief for homeowners and real estate sector
The measures are expected to benefit thousands of homeowners and developers whose projects have faced delays due to e-khata issues, Floor Area Ratio (FAR) violations and difficulties in securing OCs.
Industry stakeholders believe the changes could revive stalled projects, improve housing supply and potentially ease rental pressures in a city where accommodation costs have risen sharply in recent years.
The Bangalore Apartments’ Federation has also welcomed the government’s parallel efforts to implement the Karnataka Apartment (Ownership and Management) Act, 2025, aimed at improving transparency and strengthening apartment owners’ rights.
Questions over legal and planning concerns
However, the decision has raised questions because a Supreme Court order issued in December 2024 mandated that new electricity, water and sewage connections should be provided only to properties holding valid OCs.
Critics argue that the temporary exemption could create legal complications and encourage further deviations from approved building norms.
Urban planners also warn that increasing permissible building heights without corresponding upgrades to civic infrastructure could worsen existing challenges.
Can Bengaluru handle greater density?
Experts point out that Bengaluru already struggles with traffic congestion, flooding, waste management and pressure on public utilities. During heavy rains, many parts of the city continue to experience waterlogging and infrastructure failures.
Concerns have also been raised about shrinking green cover, increased vehicle density and reduced open spaces if vertical development accelerates without adequate safeguards.
While supporters see the proposal as a practical response to housing demand, others argue that sustainable urban planning must remain central to Bengaluru’s growth strategy. As the city expands upward, the challenge will be ensuring that infrastructure, environmental protection and quality of life grow alongside it.