After Rs 2k-crore windfall, BDA set for third e-auction of bulk land

Bengaluru: The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) appears to be on a land-selling spree to fund its ambitious infrastructure plans. 

Hot on the heels of two successful bulk land auctions — the first of which alone brought in a record Rs 2,097 crore — the BDA has launched its third e-auction in quick succession, this time offering over 47 plots in prime locations. 

While the move follows "high" interest shown by buyers, it also raises questions over the classification of sites identified for commercial use. Many of these sites were carved out of land reclaimed from encroachers or secured through court rulings. 

In a recent notification issued by the BDA, the sites up for grabs are located in some of Bengaluru’s prime neighbourhoods, including RMV 2nd Stage, Banashankari 6th Stage, Chandra Layout, Sir M Vishweshwaraiah Layout and Arkavati Layout. 

The largest plot — spanning 4,593 square metres — is in HBR 1st Stage, while the smallest, at 403 square metres, is in places like Lingadheeranahalli and Herohalli. Rates range from Rs 63,000 per sq metre to Rs 1.65 lakh based on locations. 

The inaugural auction set a stunning benchmark as the BDA earned a whopping Rs 2,097 crore by selling 52 acres in Konadasapura, off Old Madras Road. The response prompted the agency to return to the market for a second and now a third round. 

The latest notification, issued under the BDA's Disposal of Corner Sites and Commercial Sites Rules, 1984, will open for live bidding on May 6, 2026. Interested parties must register by May 5. 

A BDA official noted that bulk land auctions are designed to address Bengaluru's land scarcity by encouraging multi-dwelling unit development. 

"Instead of carving out sites that will help fewer people, auctioning bulk land will lead to efficient land use as one can build more houses on an acre of land," the official said. He also noted that the proceeds would be used for critical infrastructure upgrades. 

Despite the agency's confidence, the auction is not without controversy. Critics point out that several of these "commercial" sites are located within residential layouts. 

"The BDA does not have the power to deviate from the layout development scheme and earmark bulk land for sale unless the government passes suitable amendments," a well-placed source said.