Residents of Bengaluru’s HRBR Layout protested on 5th A Main Road on September 27 against the proposed Blossomly House, a homestay-cum-café they say could bring commercial activity, parking pressure, noise and pollution into a residential neighbourhood.
Around 30 residents gathered with banners and slogans, raising objections to the proposed establishment and seeking verification of its permissions. They have written to Bengaluru North City Corporation (BNCC) asking officials to examine its zoning, land-use compliance and clearance related to a rajakaluve, or stormwater drain, beside the property.
Residents alleged that the rajakaluve has been encroached upon by the owner. They also raised concerns about a commercial exhaust system, saying it could generate noise, smoke, odour and air pollution for nearby households. The allegations have not been independently verified in the report.
KR Prabhakar, a resident, said the proposed facility could create health and nuisance concerns if groups gathered at the premises. He also cited the possibility of increased noise from customers entering and leaving, talking and congregating in what residents regard as a predominantly residential area.
Parking is another major concern. Residents said neighbouring roads are already facing commercial activity and pressure on available parking spaces. They fear that a homestay and café could increase demand for parking and reduce spaces used by people living in the layout.
Gomathy Venkatesan, an elderly resident who said she has lived in the area for 35 years, alleged that her objection was not considered when it was initially raised. She told The Times of India that the owner had asked residents to bear the issues or vacate, while saying the road would soon become a commercial hub. The report did not include the owner’s response to that specific allegation.
A former leader of opposition of the erstwhile Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike who joined the protest said the area was purely residential and that commercial development would not be allowed. The residents maintain that such establishments are illegal in residential areas, but the report does not establish whether the proposed property has received or been denied any specific permission.
Sachin Jain, the owner of the upcoming property, said the project was intended to give back to society and was not as commercial as residents had claimed. He said it would be a no-smoking zone and that he planned to include a library alongside the homestay so that young people could read and spend time at the premises.
The immediate administrative question is whether Blossomly House complies with applicable zoning and land-use rules, and whether the property has the required drainage and other clearances. BNCC’s response and any inspection or permissions review will determine the next step in the dispute.
