The proposed multi-modal transport hub at Hebbal, intended as a key facility for the Hebbal-Sarjapur Metro line (Orange Line), faces delays due to unresolved land acquisition issues.
The Karnataka Industrial Areas Development Board (KIADB) is yet to transfer 55 acres of land in Amanikere village to Bangalore Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL). This land, meant for a state-of-the-art transport hub with multi-level parking and a depot, remains under dispute due to compensation concerns with private landowners.
Sources said that a private firm had purchased 55.1 acres in the area years ago for a tourism project but failed to execute the plan. Subsequently, KIADB repossessed the land and issued a notice in June 2023, demanding `12.10 crore per acre from the company. However, the payment is still pending, which is delaying the handover to BMRCL.
Bangalore Mirror had earlier reported how Union Minister Shobha Karandlaje had written to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, urging quick action to resolve the land issue. “A timely decision will control escalating project costs and enhance the quality of life for citizens. The central government is fully supportive of developing Bengaluru, and KIADB should expedite the land transfer to BMRCL,” she stated.
TV Mohandas Pai, Chairman of Aarin Capital, has also called on the Chief Minister to allocate 45 acres near Hebbal for the proposed tri-junction and transport hub, warning that delays are causing public anxiety. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Pai stressed the project’s importance for efficient connectivity.
The 36-km Hebbal-Sarjapur metro corridor is estimated to cost `28,405 crore, with `8,080 crore earmarked for land acquisition. Around 161.65 acres are required for the project, including 45 acres for the depot and 6.65 acres for BMRCL staff housing. Acquiring private land will require `1,224 crore.
A BMRCL official said, “We are facing delays due to certain technical issues in land acquisition,” he noted. The project aims to decongest traffic and improve travel efficiency for metro users. However, land acquisition challenges remain a significant roadblock to progress.
Meanwhile, Rajajinagar MLA S Suresh Kumar on Tuesday had written to the Chief Minister stating, “BMRCL submitted a proposal to the state government in March 2024 to transfer 45 acres under the Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board (KIADB) in Hebbal, offering to pay the value fixed by the board. However, delays by the Industries Departments in transferring this land are creating unnecessary doubts, which is not in the public’s best interest. Crucial infrastructure decisions must not face delays. I urge you to ensure that no pressures from real estate lobbies influence this matter and that the focus remains on public interest.”
