Mysore/Mysuru: The Mysuru Development Authority (MDA) has begun a drone-based land survey across Doddamaragowdanahalli (DMG Halli), Kamaravalli, Bommenahalli and Nagawala villages, covering about 2,113 acres identified for a proposed township project at Bommenahalli to be developed under a 50:50 partnership model with farmers.

Bommenahalli is located around 15-km from Mysuru city in Yelwal hobli of Mysuru taluk.

Deputy Commissioner G. Lakshmikanth Reddy, who is also the Chairman of the MDA, along with MDA Commissioner K.R. Rakshith, jointly flagged off the survey yesterday. Officials said, the use of drone technology will help speed up land measurement, boundary identification and preparation of layout plans.

Survey to take seven days

Speaking to Star of Mysore, Rakshith said, the drone survey is already underway and is expected to be completed within seven days. “If surveyors do a physical survey, it will take at least six to eight months. As such, we are using drone mapping technology where over 30,000 photos will be taken,” he said.

After the survey, a detailed report will be prepared and submitted to the Government for approval, following which the tender process will begin.

The project will be taken up in phases. Phase 1 involves the acquisition of around 1,000 acres from farmers who have already given their consent, while Phase 2 will cover the development of the remaining land.

15,000 sites for farmers

“Under the 50:50 farmer participation model, landowners who contribute their land will receive 50 percent of the developed sites and will be free to sell them to buyers of their choice. Farmers have also sought a goodwill payment ranging from Rs. 5 lakh to Rs. 10 lakh per acre and the decision on this demand will have to be taken by the Government,”    Rakshith said.

Rakshith said, about 15,000 sites will be allotted to farmers, while the MDA will retain an equal number. The total project cost is estimated at around  Rs. 470 crore. This money has already been allotted in the MDA Budget and approved by the MDA Board.

The survey is being carried out by Bengaluru-based ARV Environment Conservation Care Ltd., which has bagged the tender of Rs. 21 lakh.

Company Vice-President Rajaguru was present along with MDA Superintendent Engineer Manju, Secretary K. Johnson, Town Planning Member Shivaram and other town-planning officials, Assistant Executive Engineers, Managers and Special Revenue Inspectors.

Local leaders and landowners also attended the drone survey launch and expressed high expectations for the proposed township. Officials said, farmers have responded positively, hoping the project will bring overall development to the region.

The township will be planned with wide asphalted roads, underground drainage and sewerage systems, electricity connections, water supply, streetlights, parks, community halls, bus stands, shopping complexes and other civic amenities.

Following the survey, a layout plan will be prepared for nearly 2,113 acres using drone technology. Landowners have already consented to provide about 700 acres, while efforts are underway to secure approval for the remaining land.

Once the survey is completed and with the consent of all farmers, space for facilities such as water tanks, Sewage Treatment Plants, parks and other amenities will be identified and incorporated into the layout plan. A detailed report will then be submitted to Government for approval. —G. Lakshmikanth Reddy, Deputy Commissioner and MUDA Chairman