'Action against those flouting zoning rules'

Bengaluru Development Minister K J George on Tuesday said directions have been issued to take action against those running illegal commercial activities in residential areas.

Replying to Congress’ N A Haris in the Legislative Assembly, he said Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has already started issuing notices to owners of such properties in the city. Using more than 20% of a plot on a road less than 40 ft wide for commercial purposes is illegal according to zoning regulations, he added.

The minister said the BBMP council has formed a committee of corporators to look into the issue of illegal commercial activities in residential areas. Appropriate measures will be taken based on the committee’s report, he added.

George said that the existing green belt area will be protected while preparing the new master plan for Bengaluru.

To another question by C T Ravi of the BJP, the minister said the BBMP has not sold any public building for raising money. Currently, 11 public buildings in Bengaluru are mortgaged for a loan of Rs 1,434 crore.