The Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) owns a total of 1,026 acres of property, but reports indicate that around 100 acres have been encroached upon by land grabbers. Allegations have surfaced suggesting that BMTC officials were aware of the encroachments but failed to take action, neglecting to secure the land with a fence or compound despite its substantial value.
The affected areas include Shantinagar, Padmanabha Nagar, Uttarahalli, Kengeri, Bettadaspur, and Banashankari. Local site owners have begun construction on encroached land, while BMTC officials, who are responsible for addressing these issues, remain silent. Leaders of the transport workers have voiced concerns about this inaction.
BMTC employees have expressed their determination to legally reclaim the encroached land, proposing to use it for a hospital, housing, or a school for employees and their families. They warn that if not addressed soon, land grabbers may further encroach and construct buildings within the next few years.
Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy has stated that no land encroachment will be tolerated, and special officials will be appointed to investigate the matter. The need to protect BMTC properties has been emphasized, as has the call for accountability among officials who may have colluded with encroachers. The situation will be closely monitored as the outcome unfolds.
