Speedy Summary
- Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has initiated global tenders for a consultant to create the Revised Master Plan (RMP)-2041, aiming to publish a draft in six months.
- Interested agencies can submit tenders via e-procurement until September 30. The selected agency will have up to four months for draft readiness.
- The plan includes high-resolution satellite imagery from Karnataka State Remote Sensing Request Center and drone surveys, although some setbacks occurred with defaulting contractors.
- Legal challenges persist regarding BDA’s authority to prepare master plans, as per the 74th amendment of the Constitution, which assigns this task to Bengaluru Metropolitan planning Committee (BMPC). BMPC is yet to be constituted.
- RMP-2041 is expected to incorporate Transit-Oriented Development (TOD),premium FAR policies allowing densification along metro corridors,suburban rail network developments,and ₹1 lakh crore worth of mega infrastructure projects like tunnel roads.
Read More
Indian opinion Analysis
The commencement of RMP-2041 signals BDA’s intent toward long-term urban planning for Bengaluru amid rapid urbanization. while leveraging modern tools like satellite imagery enhances mapping accuracy, issues such as contractor defaults and legal disputes over jurisdiction highlight operational hurdles. This may further delay consensus on planning authority between BDA and BMPC.Key infrastructure elements such as TOD policies and premium FAR align with emerging trends in urban development aimed at densifying around transit hubs. Proper integration within RMP-2041 could mitigate transportation challenges but may face resistance due to concerns over equitable distribution of resources.
Legally addressing BMPC’s mandate remains essential before progress on any draft plan gains legitimacy. Considering Bengaluru’s pressing infrastructural needs tied closely with mega projects already underway, resolving governance discrepancies should take precedence.