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The Karnataka government has requested the Centre to review building height restrictions around key aviation zones in Bengaluru, stating that they are affecting real estate development and limiting efficient land use. Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar raised the issue with Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, seeking flexibility similar to other metro cities. The restrictions impact multiple airport and defence-linked areas, reducing the feasibility of vertical projects. The state is also working on long-term infrastructure plans, including a second airport and urban expansion measures.
The Karnataka government has approached the Centre to reconsider building height restrictions around major aviation zones in Bengaluru, stating that current norms are limiting planned urban growth and real estate development in several key areas.
Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar discussed the issue with Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu and explained that strict height caps across large parts of the city are affecting construction potential. He conveyed that the state has requested relaxation of norms and alignment with cities such as Mumbai and Hyderabad, where comparatively higher building limits have supported vertical development.
The restrictions currently apply to areas around Kempegowda International Airport, HAL Airport, Jakkur Aerodrome, and the Indian Air Force base in Yelahanka. These zones fall under aviation safety regulations that control permissible building heights across a wide radius to ensure flight safety. As a result, developers face limitations even in areas with strong demand and infrastructure availability.
Shivakumar indicated that developers are cautious about investing in premium Floor Area Ratio (FAR) in such zones because the inability to build vertically reduces project viability and financial returns. He also conveyed that the Union minister has agreed to take up the matter with the Defence Ministry, since several of these restrictions are linked to defence establishments and require inter-agency coordination.
The state has already initiated discussions with organisations such as Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and is planning further consultations with defence authorities to work towards a balanced approach. The focus is on allowing controlled height relaxation without affecting aviation safety or operational requirements.
The issue has gained importance as Bengaluru continues to expand and faces increasing pressure on land availability. With limited scope for horizontal growth and challenges in widening road infrastructure, the government is looking at vertical development as a practical solution to accommodate residential and commercial demand. In recent years, several parts of the city have seen rising demand for high-rise developments, especially in emerging corridors.
Alongside this, the government is working on broader urban infrastructure plans, including mobility, energy, and water management initiatives in collaboration with global partners. These efforts are aimed at supporting the city's long-term growth and improving liveability standards.
The state is also in the process of identifying a suitable location for a second airport in Bengaluru, following directions from the Centre to finalise a site. Multiple locations are currently under evaluation, considering connectivity, land availability, and future expansion needs.
Another proposal under review is the skydeck project planned near NICE Road, which has faced delays due to pending approvals linked to height and safety concerns. The government has indicated that it will take necessary steps to address these issues and move the project forward.
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