#THtalksBengaluru | N.A. Haris and the BDA’s vision for Bengaluru
A package of stories featuring Mr. Haris’s responses to readers’ questions on the environmental impact of the short tunnel project, recurring civic issues at layouts developed by the BDA, and the progress of long-pending traffic corridors to decongest the city.
N.A. Haris, the Chairman of the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), engaged in an hour-long discussion with The Hindu reporters as part of the #THTalksBengaluru event on October 8, 2026. During the interview, Haris addressed various concerns and questions from readers regarding the BDA's plans and initiatives for Bengaluru.
One of the key topics discussed was the allocation of sites for various projects within the city. Haris shed light on the recent allocation of sites in Dr. K. Shivaram Karanth Layout, highlighting the importance of strategic land allocation in the growth and development of Bengaluru.
A significant portion of the conversation revolved around the Peripheral Ring Road-1 (PRR-1), a long-pending project that has the potential to alleviate traffic congestion in the city. Haris provided insights into the tendering process for the project, emphasizing the BDA's commitment to ensuring transparency and efficiency in the allocation of funds and resources.
The interview also touched upon the contentious issue of tree felling for the construction of the short tunnel project between Hebbal junction and Mehkri Circle. Haris addressed concerns regarding the impact of this decision on the city's green cover and emphasized the necessity of balancing development with environmental preservation.
Another crucial aspect of the discussion centered around the promotion of vertical growth in Bengaluru. Haris outlined the BDA's strategy for encouraging multi-story buildings and high-rise structures to optimize the use of limited urban space while maintaining the city's aesthetic appeal and livability.
Lastly, Haris reaffirmed the BDA's role as the sole planning authority for the rapidly growing city of Bengaluru. He stressed the importance of maintaining a consistent and unified approach to urban planning, ensuring that the city's development remains cohesive and sustainable in the long run.
Written by urgent.news from The Hindu's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.