Bengaluru's long-awaited and much-discussed skydeck project, a towering 250-metre structure promising panoramic city views, has finally identified a seemingly permanent location. After evaluating five previous sites that fell through, the state government has now zeroed in on a 46-acre plot in the Challaghatta-Bheemanakuppe area in west Bengaluru.
A Long Journey: From Concept to the Sixth Site
Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who originally proposed the idea, inspected the new site on Thursday. This marks the sixth location considered since the project's inception. The land, situated just 500 metres from a major arterial road and 1 kilometre from the Bengaluru-Mysuru access-controlled highway, is owned by the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA). It was initially notified as part of the Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout plan.
The project's history is a tale of repeated setbacks. Earlier considered locations included:
- 10 acres in Baiyappanahalli
- 25 acres in Hemmigepura
- Land owned by Karnataka Soaps and Detergents Limited
- 25 acres on the Bangalore University campus
- 30 acres in Kommaghatta
These sites were abandoned due to a combination of aviation safety concerns, strong opposition from local residents and academic communities, and various feasibility challenges related to geography and safety.
Why Challaghatta Emerged as the Frontrunner
Senior officials close to the project express strong confidence in the newly selected Challaghatta site. A key source highlighted that, unlike previous options, this land is free of legal complications and is not expected to face objections from aviation authorities regarding flight safety.
"The site inspected by the DCM and senior officials is far more ideal compared to the previous options explored," a senior official stated. "Compared to the other options explored in the past, this location is free of legal issues. If the state govt finalises the proposal, project implementation will also be easier, as the BDA owns the land."
This ownership by the BDA is seen as a major advantage, potentially streamlining the approval and construction process once a final decision is made.
Political Hurdles and Future Impact
Shivakumar also revealed another roadblock encountered earlier. The government had sought land acquired by the Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) for a NICE road project, but the necessary No-Objection Certificate (NOC) was not granted. The deputy CM did not mince words, alleging that "NICE believes it is bigger than the govt" and vowed to "teach a lesson."
If constructed at the Challaghatta site, the Rs 500-crore skydeck is anticipated to be a significant catalyst for infrastructure development in and around the Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout. This is welcome news for thousands of site allottees in the area who have been advocating for improved civic amenities for years. The project promises to become a major landmark and tourist attraction for India's tech capital.
