The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has formally written to the forest department, requesting an urgent joint meeting to find a permanent solution to the protracted Turahalli forest buffer zone dispute. This crisis has left hundreds of plot owners unable to construct homes on legally purchased sites for several years.
Background of the Dispute
In its letter, the BDA highlighted that numerous plots in its Banashankari 6th Phase layout, spanning Blocks 1 to 11, fall within the buffer zone of the forest area. The forest department has consistently refused construction permissions to affected plot owners, causing widespread confusion and distress among citizens who invested their life savings in BDA-allotted sites.
Progress Made So Far
A senior BDA official stated, "Around 1,300 sites were initially under the buffer zone, causing hardship to many families. After joint efforts and surveys, a total of 1,000 were taken out of the buffer zone, leaving about 300 sites, covering around 18 acres, within the buffer zone along the forest boundary. This has brought relief to many, with several families starting construction. Now, with clearer data from joint surveys, the focus is on finding a legal framework for a permanent solution, which will be discussed in the upcoming meeting."
Drone Survey and Revised Layout
The BDA's letter also mentioned that a drone survey of the Turahalli forest and adjoining layout was conducted on January 10, 2026, in coordination with forest officials. The findings were discussed in joint meetings with consultants, leading to a revised layout map identifying buffer zone sites, which was subsequently submitted to the forest department.
Request for High-Level Meeting
BDA has now formally requested the forest conservator to urgently fix a date for a high-level joint meeting. This meeting is expected to involve the additional chief secretaries of the forest, environment, and biology departments to discuss the issue comprehensively and arrive at a permanent solution for the Turahalli forest buffer zone.
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