Several apartment residents in Bengaluru are facing a dilemma as they are forced to pay significant sanitary charges by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB) despite treating their sewage on their own. According to BWSSB rules introduced in 2014, apartments with over 20 flats must establish sewage treatment plants (STPs). Residents argue that they are being charged unjustly, as they are bearing the expenses of STPs. They have raised this issue with BWSSB, stating that they are not receiving services in return for these charges. BWSSB claims they don't impose sanitary charges on apartments complying with sewage treatment norms set by the National Green Tribunal.Read more

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is actively digitizing over 40 lakh properties in an effort to combat property tax evasion and boost revenue collection. Four specific wards, including Kodigehalli, CV Raman Nagar, Horamavu, and Arakere, have already initiated the digitization process, with a goal to complete this task for all wards within three months. This move comes in response to Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar's "Nanna Swathu" (My Property) initiative, aimed at improving property tax collection. Digitizing property documents will provide accurate details online, reducing misrepresentation and potentially increasing tax collection, currently at Rs 3,000 to Rs 4,000 crore annually. Defaulters are being sent reminders and may face penalties if dues are not settled by November 30.Read more

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) is taking robust measures to compel property tax compliance. Defaulters now face severe consequences, including vehicle seizures, bank account freezes, and property sealing. BBMP aims to collect Rs 4,790 crore in property tax and related cess for the fiscal year 2023-24. BBMP is intensifying reminders, sending text messages to defaulters with online payment links and warnings of legal actions under the BBMP Act-2020. A proactive physical verification process is also in place to ensure accurate property data. BBMP's comprehensive approach and digital initiatives set a positive precedent for efficient tax administration and equitable resource allocation.Read more

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.Read more

Bengaluru's luxury real estate market is experiencing unprecedented demand, driven by high-net-worth individuals and start-up founders seeking opulent residences for tax-saving benefits. Exclusive properties like Adarsh Palm Retreat and Radical Rhapsody are highly sought after, resulting in surging property prices. The resale luxury home market is also flourishing, fuelled by employees cashing in their ESOPs. With the introduction of a capital gains deduction limit, HNIs are investing in luxury properties, and the future looks bright as India's population of wealthy individuals is predicted to grow significantly.Read more

Qualcomm is set to bolster its presence in the technology hub of Bengaluru with a significant expansion. The company has secured 600,000 square feet of office space at Bagmane Capital-Angkor, an established location for tech enterprises. This expansion will be executed in two phases, ultimately spanning the ground floor and 12 additional levels within the forthcoming facility. According to official documents, Qualcomm is committed to a lease term of 108 months, pointing to the company's commitment to the region and its mission to be part of the flourishing tech ecosystem in Bengaluru.Read more

The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is facing a lack of interest from potential buyers in its auction of corner sites due to the absence of geo-tagging. The BDA presented 123 corner and middle sites for auction, but since these sites are not geo-tagged, prospective buyers are finding it challenging to locate and assess the plots using platforms like Google Maps. The absence of geo-tagging has raised concerns among buyers who fear that friends and family may have difficulty finding the plots if they decide to construct a home there. The BDA has acknowledged this issue and is working to address it. Some customers have also highlighted the challenges of locating sites in the rapidly changing Bengaluru landscape. The absence of geo-tagging has become a significant concern for both authorities and potential buyers in the region.Read more

The Karnataka Real Estate Regulatory Authority (KRERA) has taken an important step in addressing an issue with a housing project near Bengaluru. KRERA has ordered the developer, Shree Senior Homes, of a senior living project named Sharadindu State III, to transfer a corpus fund of Rs 62.26 lakh to the Resident Welfare Association (RWA) of the project. This directive follows the RWA's request for relief due to the developer's failure to transfer the corpus fund, despite maintaining the project since 2016. The decision highlights KRERA's commitment to protecting the rights and interests of homebuyers and RWAs in real estate developments.Read more

The Karnataka State Pollution Control Board (KSPCB) has reportedly collected only Rs 4 crore of the National Green Tribunal's (NGT) Rs 200 crore fine imposed on over 160 Bengaluru apartment complexes and commercial establishments since 2000 for non-compliance with sewage treatment plans. Forest Minister Eshwar B Khandre disclosed the poor enforcement, citing legal hurdles as the reason. Builders sold apartments and do not hold up to their responsibility while the new owners are unwilling to pay the fines. They have even contested the fines in court. The NGT's deadline for setting up sewage treatment plants was originally December 2023, but that too has been extended now to December 2024.Read more

Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India Private Limited, a leading luxury car manufacturer, has extended its lease for seven floors in Bengaluru's Embassy Crest building. The five-year lease, commencing on May 1, 2023, covers 5.42 lakh square feet and involves a substantial monthly rent of Rs 2.5 crore and a security deposit of Rs 48 crore. These office premises are dedicated to research and development (R&D) and IT purposes, and the agreement includes a 5 percent annual escalation clause. This renewal highlights Mercedes-Benz's commitment to innovation and R&D, reflecting the vital role of technological advancements in the automotive industry's future. Choosing Bengaluru underscores the city's tech and innovation prominence, positioning it as a key hub for research and development in the automotive sector.Read more

The Karnataka Housing Board (KHB) has proposed the construction of a world-class integrated township near Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru. It involves residential and commercial complexes alongside the integrated township. The project is set to be built on 95.23 acres of land in Chikkajala-Meenukunte village and the consent for transferring 65 acres of land for the project has already been received. It is a joint collaboration between KHB and landowners and aims to enhance connectivity and infrastructure in the vicinity of Kempegowda International Airport.Read more

TVS Emerald, a subsidiary of TVS Holdings Ltd, has unveiled 'The Estate,' its maiden plotted development project in Bagalur, near Bangalore. This 33-acre project is the group's first venture into plotted development near Bangalore and has already witnessed remarkable success, with 442 out of 461 plots sold on the launch day. 'The Estate' offers a unique feature with every plot adorned with fruit-bearing orchard trees. It comprises three phases, each offering modern amenities. Additionally, a 15,000 sq.ft clubhouse is planned. TVS Emerald plans to expand its presence in Bangalore with upcoming projects.Read more

Schneider Electric India, a branch of the French multinational, has leased a vast 4.8 lakh square feet of office space in Bengaluru's Outer Ring Road. The new facility, located in the Bagmane Solarium business park, will accommodate over 4,800 employees. This move is part of Schneider's expansion strategy, with the lease spanning 10 years. The deal underscores a growing trend in 2023 of major corporations securing large office spaces in key commercial areas, reflecting renewed confidence in India's commercial real estate market.Read more

Birla Estates Pvt Ltd, the real estate arm of Aditya Birla Group, has successfully sold out phase 1 of Birla Trimaya in Bengaluru within just 36 hours of its launch. This project, located in Devanahalli, North Bengaluru, encompasses 556 units across 52 acres, with a booking value of Rs 500 crore. Birla Estates has set its revenue target for this project at Rs 3,000 crore, reflecting the strong demand for luxury real estate in North Bengaluru due to the presence of global companies and skilled professionals. The transformation of North Bengaluru into a thriving residential and commercial hub has been driven by factors like the Bengaluru International Airport and Manyata Tech Park. This achievement highlights the continued demand for quality properties in Bengaluru's growing real estate market.Read more

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has taken decisive action against the unauthorized dumping of construction waste and debris in Bengaluru. Stringent measures have been announced, including fines and legal consequences for violators. BBMP officials are tasked with monitoring vehicles transporting construction waste across the city, and vehicles found in violation may face fines and even confiscation. BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath emphasized the importance of proper waste disposal and highlighted the responsibility of waste generators. The penalties for non-compliance include fines of Rs 10,000 per ton and legal actions under environmental laws. This initiative aims to maintain Bengaluru's environmental integrity and urban aesthetics.Read more

India's prominent co-working provider, BHIVE Workspace, has unveiled its biggest co-working facility in Bengaluru's central business district on Church Street. This move caters to the escalating demand for premium flexible office spaces in the city. Covering an expansive 1.2 lakh square feet, the new co-working space offers nearly 3,500 seats and an array of dining options. Already a hit, with over 40% of seats occupied, the launch was celebrated with celebrity presence. This addition strengthens BHIVE's presence in Bengaluru's CBD as co-working demand continues to rise in prime locations.Read more

FF21, a prominent co-living operator, is set to expand in Bengaluru, aiming to introduce 2000 new beds across 3-4 strategic locations in the current fiscal year. With six properties in Bengaluru already, FF21 caters to young working professionals by offering dynamic and community-focused co-living spaces. The demand for co-living spaces is growing due to hybrid work models, prompting FF21 to pursue ambitious expansion plans. CEO Ajay Nemani emphasizes their commitment to top-tier co-living spaces with excellent design, community integration, and advanced technology, ensuring a comfortable and secure living environment.Read more

The Petitions Committee of the Karnataka State Assembly has given the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) a one-year extension to complete the Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout (NPKL) project due to ongoing land acquisition cases. This decision came after the BDA explained its need for additional time to provide essential infrastructure. However, the committee expressed dissatisfaction with the BDA's repeated delays and the impact on the 10,000 allottees waiting to build homes. This case highlights the challenges of urban development and the importance of timely infrastructure provision. It also underscores the need for adherence to environmental guidelines in urban planning.Read more

Birla Estates Private Limited, a subsidiary of Century Textiles and Industries Limited, has unveiled a real estate project in Bengaluru's Devanahalli area with a potential revenue of Rs 3,000 crore. The project, called Birla Trimaya, is being launched in phases, offering 1, 2, and 3BHK apartments and duplexes across eight towers. Located near the upcoming BIAL IT Investment Region, it aims to attract a diverse range of investors. Birla Estates' CEO, KT Jithendran, highlighted the growing business hub in North Bengaluru, making it an attractive destination for skilled professionals seeking an opulent lifestyle. The project is in collaboration with Ramaiah Realty LLP.Read more

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) in Bangalore is cracking down on unauthorized flex banners, particularly those outside under-construction real estate properties, as part of a broader campaign against illegal signage. During this effort, BBMP officials have filed numerous complaints and FIRs against violators, including real estate developers. While penalties for banner violations are in place, activists argue that political will is necessary to address this issue effectively. They suggest considering stricter measures, like temporarily revoking advertising rights, and exploring alternative methods such as electronic displays for advertisements to combat the persistent problem of unauthorized banners.Read more