Height curbs near airports hindering Bengaluru growth: DKS

Height restrictions near airports are stifling Bengaluru's growth, prompting calls for a review to boost development potential.

Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development in-charge D.K. Shivakumar on Wednesday said building height restrictions around key aviation facilities have emerged as a major hurdle to the city’s development.

He said the restrictions around HAL Airport, Jakkur Aerodrome, Yelahanka Air Force Station, and Kempegowda International Airport have discouraged citizens from opting for premium Floor Area Ratio (FAR), affecting government revenue.

Speaking to mediapersons in Delhi after meeting Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, Mr. Shivakumar said the State has urged the Centre to review the restrictions. He noted that cities such as Hyderabad and Mumbai have relatively relaxed norms and sought similar provisions for Bengaluru.

“Citizens are hesitant to opt for premium FAR due to these limits, resulting in revenue loss. The Union government itself has encouraged reducing base FAR while increasing premium FAR,” he said.

Mr. Shivakumar added that the Civil Aviation Minister has assured discussions with the Defence Ministry. He said State officials have already engaged with HAL authorities and that he would seek an appointment with the Defence Minister to press for a solution.

He added that the Civil Aviation Minister has said international guidelines and norms followed in other Indian cities are being studied, and a meeting will be held within a week. With the upcoming Bengaluru Business Corridor, landowners are likely to develop their properties, but height restrictions would pose challenges, he added.