Residents of HRBR Layout in Bengaluru have identified 130 illegal buildings, a mix of commercial and residential, that violate zoning regulations and lack adequate parking space. People expressed concern about the congestion and deteriorating living conditions due to the commercialization of the area. Despite premium charges for residential land, commercial buildings have been constructed, often with more than three floors and insufficient parking. Vehicles of employees and customers are being parked on roads, footpaths, and in front of other residential houses and gates, making it a nuisance to the people. Frustrated with the BBMP's inaction, residents petitioned the BBMP Chief Commissioner and Deputy Chief Minister, urging the cancellation of licenses for commercial buildings on residential plots.
In HRBR Layout, Bengaluru, residents are vehemently demanding the cancellation of licenses for 130 illegal buildings that violate zoning regulations, emphasizing their adverse effects on the living conditions of other residents. The concerned citizens initiated this action after being inspired by the BBMP's recent crackdown on illegal structures in Whitefield.
The residential layout of HRBR has witnessed a troubling surge in the construction of commercial buildings, causing a pressing issue of overcrowding. These mixed residential-commercial buildings often fall short of the parking space requirements stipulated for commercial establishments. Vehicles of employees and customers are being parked on roads, footpaths, and in front of other residential houses and gates. Consequently, the streets of HRBR Layout have become increasingly congested.
An exhaustive survey conducted by the residents of HRBR Layout, 1st Block, identified 130 illicit structures, including both commercial buildings and residential apartments that blatantly disregarded zoning regulations. HRBR Layout was designed as an exclusive and entirely residential community. As per BDA rules, the house should be built within three years; otherwise, it is reallocated. Even the original sale deed was issued after 10 years of allotment. Despite these conditions, plans have been sanctioned now for empty plots, allowing the construction of residential and commercial sites. This is in direct contradiction to the layout's intended purpose.
Despite the allotment of land at premium rates, the builders have violated guidelines, constructing apartments that are well below the recommended 5300 sq ft. Some of these apartments even exceed three floors, and the commercial buildings lack any provision for parking.
To address this issue, the concerned residents conducted a thorough survey four months ago, identifying the 130 illegal buildings in question. Four hundred residents took the initiative to sign and submit a letter to the BBMP Chief Commissioner and Deputy Chief Minister, demanding strict action. They stressed that many of the apartment constructions in the area are illegal and urged the relevant BBMP department to revoke licenses issued to commercial buildings on residential plots. None of these buildings comply with the parking space requirements laid out in Table 23 of the Comprehensive Development Plan (CDP).
Residents have seen a significant decline in living conditions as the layout has transformed into a commercial hub. The situation has become challenging to monitor for both residents and law enforcement due to the influx of people constantly entering and exiting the area. Their desire is to return to the peaceful, safe, and residential neighbourhood they initially chose to live in.
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