Govt finally commits to provide Hebbal land for transit hub

Bengaluru: After dilly-dallying on the Hebbal land transfer issue for several months, the govt Saturday broke its silence and categorically said it "is committed to transferring 45 acres in Hebbal to Namma Metro for construction of a multi-modal transit hub".
An assurance to this effect was given by industries minister MB Patil a day after a closed-door meeting with DCM DK Shivakumar and a few senior IAS officers.
The prime land, sought by BMRCL keeping in mind public interest, was being eyed by a cartel comprising a few realtors, politicians and bureaucrats. However, the decision-makers hadn't been taking a stand on the issue fearing legal interpretations and interventions.
Patil's statement now offers a glimmer of hope for the long-stalled transport project. However, he cautioned: "Resolving legal hurdles surrounding the land is crucial before moving forward." Though Patil did not clarify what the hurdles are, sources pointed to a recent court order that could complicate transfer of land — currently in possession of Karnataka Industrial Area Development Board — to BMRCL.
In a press release issued Saturday, Patil said, "The total land under discussion in Hebbal spans 55 acres and 13 guntas. Of this, Namma Metro has requested 45 acres and 5 guntas. On Friday, DK Shivakumar and I held a meeting to discuss the matter. It was decided that all existing legal obstacles must first be cleared to avoid further complications."
He pointed out that the previous BJP govt issued an order permitting the organisation claiming ownership of the land to implement its project over the next three years. Additionally, a court order is in place regarding the matter. "If we transfer the land to Namma Metro without resolving these legal issues, it could lead to further complexities," he maintained.
"As a minister, it is not appropriate to act against decisions of the govt and court. A unilateral decision could result in further complications. Hence, we are working on the most feasible way to facilitate smooth transfer of land to BMRCL," Patil emphasised.
What happened last year
In March 2024, BMRCL approached the govt, requesting it to direct KIADB to transfer 45 acres of land in Hebbal. Namma Metro proposed the construction of a transit hub on the land along with multi-level parking, a depot and other facilities. It also agreed to provide compensation of over Rs 500 crore to get the land.
Interestingly, KIADB acquired 50-plus acres of land for a tourism project mooted more than two decades ago. The project remained a non-starter till 2023 when the outgoing BJP govt gave a green signal for construction of shopping malls, hotels and apartments. The Times of India had highlighted the issue. Even senior BJP functionaries Suresh Kumar and Shobha Karandlaje had given representations to CM Siddaramaiah seeking transfer of land for a transport hub.