Kanakapura Road, once known primarily for plotted developments, is beginning to attract high-rise residential projects even beyond the NICE Road corridor. Industry observers note that real estate activity is expected to gather pace, especially with Kanakapura strongman Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister. However, big developers have yet to make significant commitments in the area.
Shift from plotted to vertical growth
Historically, Kanakapura Road was favored for plotted developments due to its relatively lower land prices and proximity to Bengaluru's southern suburbs. But in recent months, several mid-sized developers have launched apartment projects, signaling a shift toward vertical growth. According to local real estate consultants, the number of high-rise projects sanctioned beyond NICE Road has increased by nearly 30% compared to the previous year.
Political boost and infrastructure plans
The appointment of Siddaramaiah as Chief Minister, who represents the Varuna constituency in the Kanakapura region, has spurred optimism among landowners and small developers. The state government has also shortlisted Karenahalli, near Kanakapura, as one of two locations for Bengaluru's second airport. This has led to speculative land buying, with prices in some pockets rising by 15-20% over the past six months, according to property consultants.
Big developers remain cautious
Despite the buzz, major developers such as Prestige, Sobha, and Brigade have not announced large-scale projects on Kanakapura Road. Industry experts cite concerns over infrastructure gaps, including narrow roads, inadequate water supply, and lack of metro connectivity. "While the political push is encouraging, big developers need concrete infrastructure commitments before placing large bets," said a senior analyst at a leading real estate consultancy.
Land prices and investment trends
Land prices along Kanakapura Road vary significantly, with rates near NICE Road ranging from Rs 5,000 to Rs 8,000 per square foot, while areas beyond command lower prices of Rs 2,000 to Rs 4,000 per square foot. Investors are eyeing parcels near the proposed airport site, though many transactions remain informal. Local brokers report that farmland parcels of 1-5 acres are being consolidated for future development.
Challenges ahead
For Kanakapura Road to attract major developers, several hurdles must be addressed. The road itself is often congested, and the proposed widening project has faced delays. Additionally, the area lacks reliable public transport and sewage infrastructure. The government's announcement of a new industrial corridor and the airport project could accelerate development, but timelines remain uncertain.
Outlook
Real estate activity on Kanakapura Road is poised to grow, driven by political will and infrastructure plans. However, the pace of transformation will depend on how quickly the government delivers on its promises. For now, the market remains fragmented, with small and mid-sized players leading the charge while big developers watch from the sidelines.
