Bengaluru can now declare private streets public independently

The Karnataka government has passed a new law that allows the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) to declare private roads as public streets without needing permission from property owners. This change aims to improve access, infrastructure, and safety on poorly maintained roads. Under the new law, the BBMP can take action to convert private streets to public ones, even if the owners disagree. This is a shift from the previous rule, where a majority of residents had to approve such a change. Now, the BBMP can step in if a private road is in bad condition or poses health and safety risks. Before making these changes, the BBMP must notify the public and inform affected property owners. They can also take action on their own or respond to requests from residents. If a private road needs repairs, owners will have a set time to make improvements. If they do not comply, the BBMP can fix the road and charge the costs through property taxes. The new law also strengthens building regulations. Zonal commissioners can now stop construction and prevent the use of unauthorized buildings to combat illegal developments. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the state government to streamline city management, improve road infrastructure, and enhance public safety. The goal is to better handle urban growth and create a well-structured city.