Long known for allotting sites and creating low-cost, affordable housing, the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is now trying its hand at an entirely new segment – gated communities. The move has split experts into two camps, with some critical of the agency’s plans while others feel it is a natural use of the agency’s capabilities. We bring you the highlights of the BDA’s plan.

1) It Has Got A Great Location:

The 40-acre project is situated on the outskirts of the city in Alur near Nelamangala. It is very close to state highway 35 and the nearest metro station is Nagasandra. There are plans to extend the metro line beyond the Bangalore International Exhibition Centre (BIEC) and the region’s is also close to the airport – both factors that could interest potential buyers. The area could be a great choice for those looking for quiet and calm, while still being connected.

2) It Will Have Something For Everyone:

A gated-community will mean that security and infrastructure will be at its best. The project will contain 2 BHK homes as well as 2 and 3 BHK duplex houses with the 2 BHK homes ranging from 883 sq. feet and the duplex houses ranging from 1,340 sq. feet to 1,606 sq. feet. The BDA is clearly not limiting itself to any one type of house and so the project will have something for everyone

3) It Will Be Affordable:

The BDA has seen how private players have tapped into the growing demand for premium affordable housing and are keen on tapping that market by keeping their product affordable. The BDA plans to sell 2 BHK homes for about Rs 25 Lakhs, while the duplex homes could cost between Rs 40 Lakhs to Rs 50 Lakhs depending on the number of bedrooms required.

4) You Will Get Villa-Styled Homes:

The main reason why BDA is planning gated communities here are the zoning rules. Alur comes under the Tippagondanahalli reservoir catchment area, which allows only ground + 1 structures to be built in the vicinity. The BDA has already built over 1,500 apartments in the region and understand that there is demand for villa-style homes, which is why it is building these homes.

What’s ironic here is that gated communities are not recognized by the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act of 1961. But now that the BDA is entering this segment, that will change for sure.

Reporter : Stacy Pereira, NDTV
Web Editor : Nikhil Narayan Sivadas, NDTV