New Delhi, March 18 (NationPress) The Deputy Chief Minister of Karnataka, D.K. Shivakumar, stated on Wednesday that the existing height limitations on constructions surrounding HAL Airport, Jakkur Aerodrome, the Indian Air Force base, and Kempegowda International Airport in Bengaluru are obstructing essential development initiatives. He has formally requested the Union Civil Aviation Minister to reevaluate these limitations.

After a meeting with Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu, Shivakumar remarked: "We had discussions regarding the building height restrictions with the Civil Aviation Ministry and HAL representatives. In major cities like Hyderabad and Mumbai, the height limits are relatively more lenient. We have urged that Bengaluru should also adopt similar regulations as those in other urban areas."

"These restrictions are discouraging citizens in Bengaluru from opting for premium Floor Area Ratio (FAR). Consequently, the government is experiencing a loss in potential revenue. The Central government recommends that we lower FAR while increasing premium FAR. Thus, we need to make several decisions on this matter, which is why we approached the Union Minister," he added.

Shivakumar noted that Union Minister Naidu indicated he would discuss the matter with the Defence Minister. He also mentioned that officials have engaged in talks with HAL representatives, and he plans to request a meeting with the Defence Minister to present their concerns. "We are committed to finding solutions for Bengaluru's development," he stated.

"Minister N.S. Boseraju, Karnataka's Special Representative in Delhi, T.B. Jayachandra, and I engaged with the Civil Aviation Minister today. Bengaluru is experiencing rapid growth, necessitating attention to traffic congestion. Residential developments are expanding in the outskirts, leading to an increase in vehicle numbers. Within the city, we have HAL Airport, Jakkur Aerodrome, the Yelahanka Air Force base, and Kempegowda International Airport in Devanahalli. These airports create significant challenges for constructing tall buildings in nearby areas," he explained.

"I have been advocating for a Skydeck project for the past two and a half years. We have now decided to build it at Kempegowda Layout, as it cannot be situated within a 20 km radius of the airport. The NGF location was ideal due to metro connectivity, while another suggestion was to situate it near Sompura Circle along NICE Road. Unfortunately, the NICE authorities have not been cooperative. We will determine the next steps regarding NICE, as they failed to provide the necessary no-objection certificate. Those who do not assist the government will face suitable repercussions," he remarked.

“The Union Minister has mentioned that they are reviewing international standards and regulations from other cities in India. A meeting is scheduled within a week, and our officials are invited to participate. With the forthcoming Bengaluru Business Corridor, landowners affected by land acquisition will seek to build on their properties. Height limitations could pose significant challenges for them,” he added.

“Concerning the second international airport, the Centre has provided guidance indicating that the state government should select a location. We have two or three potential sites, and our government will evaluate the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. Once I return to Bengaluru, I will review the communication from the Centre. I raised this issue with the Union Minister, keeping Bengaluru's future in mind. The responsibility for developing the new airport will rest with Minister for Large and Medium Industries, M.B. Patil," he concluded.