Bengaluru BMTC to Transform Bus Station Rooftops into Commercial Hubs
Bus stations in Bengaluru are poised for a vibrant transformation as the Bangalore Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) initiates a strategic move to monetise rooftop spaces at key transit hubs. This innovative plan aims to convert these areas into lively centres featuring shops, eateries, and various public amenities, thereby boosting the corporation's non-fare revenue streams.
Tenders Floated for Major Transit Hubs
The corporation has officially floated tenders to lease terrace areas at two prominent locations: Shanthinagar TTMC and Vijayanagar TTMC. This initiative opens the door for a diverse range of commercial establishments to operate above these busy bus stations. Potential uses include restaurants, cafes, supermarkets, gyms, clinics, and coaching centres, creating multifunctional spaces that serve daily commuters and local residents alike.
Available rooftop areas are substantial: Shanthinagar TTMC offers approximately 20,097 square feet, while Vijayanagar TTMC provides 20,976 square feet. Both terminals were constructed under the JNNRUM scheme, with a combined investment exceeding Rs 160 crore. Shanthinagar has been operational since 2010, and Vijayanagar since 2011, each housing government offices, commercial establishments, and parking facilities.
Licensing Details and Financial Terms
The BMTC has set the licence fee at Rs 6.8 lakh per month (including GST) for Shanthinagar and Rs 7.5 lakh per month (including GST) for Vijayanagar. The initial licence period spans three years, with an option to extend for another three years based on mutual consent. Successful bidders must remit 11 months of the offered licence fee as a security deposit. Additionally, a three-month rent-free gestation period will be granted to allow for the development and setup of the commercial spaces.
Permitted and Prohibited Activities
The corporation has approved over 15 types of activities for these rooftop spaces, ensuring a vibrant mix of services. Permitted uses include:
- Retail outlets and supermarkets
- Vegetarian and non-vegetarian restaurants, cafes, and bakeries
- Tuition and coaching centres
- Gyms, clinics, and pharmacies
- Showrooms, multiplexes, and game zones
- Dormitories and sports facilities
However, strict prohibitions are in place to maintain safety and community standards. Banned activities encompass hazardous industries, liquor sales, slaughterhouses, automotive workshops, heavy storage, data centres with high cooling loads, and any polluting or noisy industrial operations.
Operational Guidelines and Compliance
The terraces will be handed over on an as-is-where-is basis, meaning licensees must undertake all necessary developments. They are required to obtain all statutory approvals before commencing operations, including building plan sanctions, fire safety clearances, and occupancy certificates. Structural alterations without prior approval are not permitted, and all works must comply with municipal bylaws and safety norms to ensure public welfare and infrastructure integrity.
This forward-thinking initiative by the BMTC not only aims to enhance revenue but also to revitalise urban spaces, making bus stations more than just transit points—they could become community hubs that enrich Bengaluru's urban landscape.
