Bengaluru may soon ban underground parking plans for good - Know why

In the wake of relentless rainfall that triggered widespread waterlogging and flooding across Bengaluru, the Karnataka government has announced plans to ban the construction of underground parking facilities in the city's low-lying areas.

Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, who also holds the Bengaluru Development portfolio, made the announcement on Wednesday during a visit to several rain-hit localities, accompanied by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, PTI reported.

"I'm taking a policy decision that wherever there is a low-lying area, in the future we will not allow underground parking facilities,” Shivakumar told reporters, as quoted by PTI. He added that builders would instead be encouraged to construct above-ground parking to prevent water seepage and flooding in such zones.

Citing the increasing risk posed by climate-related events and urban infrastructure vulnerabilities, the minister said, "So we are bringing a new policy that wherever there is a low-lying area, we will not allow any underground parking. This is the decision we have more or less taken.”

Heavy rains over the past few days have caused significant disruption in parts of Bengaluru, with clogged drains, inundated basements and power outages reported from several neighbourhoods. The civic administration and disaster response teams have been working continuously to manage the crisis.

The Deputy CM stressed that the city’s infrastructure will undergo a systematic overhaul. “We are committed to the development of Bengaluru and are looking at widening roads, addressing traffic problems and improving underground sewage. New roads will be built... we will sort out the problems,” he said, assuring citizens that the administration was treating the situation with utmost seriousness.

“I appeal to people to remain calm. There is nothing to worry about. Bengaluru is a very important city and we are here to sort out the problem,” said the Deputy CM, quoted by PTI.

Shivakumar also confirmed the tragic loss of two lives due to electrocution while operating water pumps during the rain. The state government has announced a compensation of Rs 5 lakh for each of the bereaved families.

The Karnataka government’s decision comes amid growing concern over the city’s drainage and stormwater management systems, especially in areas that have been urbanised rapidly without adequate planning.