BENGALURU: Vastu considerations have emerged as a significant factor contributing to the declining demand for Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) flats, despite their affordable pricing. With over 3,500 units still unsold, BDA is grappling with financial strains and has turned to private builders to help offload the remaining inventory.
Of the 11,917 units constructed so far, 3,586 units are unoccupied. Efforts to boost sales through online platforms, flat sale fairs, and bulk buyer discounts are yet to yield the desired results. “Several factors contribute to the sluggish sales of BDA flats, including lack of Vastu-compliant designs, which is a key consideration for many potential buyers,” said a senior BDA member.
Adding: “Many BDA housing complexes are located on the city outskirts, where road and Metro connectivity is inadequate, making these properties less attractive, compared to centrally-located private complexes.
Persistent issues with basic amenities, such as unreliable electricity supply, along with complaints about poor construction quality, have further deterred buyers. Even the rental market has seen stagnation, with residents reporting a lack of interest from potential renters, exacerbating the problem.”
Supriya Girish, a resident of Vijayanagar, shared her experience: “We bought a 2 BHK flat in Gunjur two years ago on loan and did interior work to rent it out. However, no one is interested in renting. It’s too far for us to commute there, so we’re stuck with the flat.”
In response to these challenges, BDA is intensifying its collaboration with private builders to facilitate the sale of these flats. The authority is also focusing on enhancing the management of apartments through residents’ associations to ensure better maintenance and community living standards.
NA Harris, MLA and chairman of BDA, said: “Some people believe in Vastu Shastra and some don’t, so it becomes very difficult to build houses according to their choices. We can build homes according to the land availability and permission and structural dependency. We have negotiated with private builders and are taking steps to manage the outstanding flats through apartment residents’ associations.”
Harris added, “BDA is giving away houses at a very low price to ensure everyone has their own home, as buying a house in the city with private builders is very expensive.”
NS Jayaram, BDA commissioner, said many programmes are being planned to ensure better sales of BDA flats. “Our hope remains that strategic collaborations and improvements in infrastructure will eventually revive the demand, benefiting both the authority and prospective homeowners,” Jayaram told TOI.
