The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is entering the premium real estate segment, traditionally dominated by private developers, by offering high-end features such as terrace swimming pools, amenity-rich clubhouses, and butterfly parks in its upcoming projects. This move aligns with efforts to change the BDA’s long-standing reputation for constructing low-quality apartments that typically face weak buyer interest. The shift is seen as part of Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar's broader push to reform the agency's image and offerings.

However, the initiative may face legal challenges. Under existing BDA regulations, the authority is required to implement self-financing housing schemes that cater to all income groups — including high-, middle-, and low-income categories. The rules currently do not permit standalone luxury housing projects.

To undertake this transition, the BDA has tied up with two private companies for the construction of three new residential projects comprising 1,485 flats. The units are expected to be priced between Rs 10 million and Rs 10.5 million, marking a significant departure from the BDA’s previous pricing model, which focused on more affordable housing options.

News source: Deccan Herald