Bhopal’s master plan stalled for 21 years:Illegal constructions surge past 1 lakh within planning limits

After a delay of over two decades, Bhopal is yet to get a finalized master plan, but illegal constructions have surged across its planning area. According to the draft of the Master Plan-2047, pending for nearly six months, around 1.2 lakh unauthorized constructions have been identified. Out of these, nearly 85,000 constructions are concentrated in the Neelbad–Ratibad region, located within or around the catchment area of the Upper Lake, raising serious environmental and planning concerns. Satellite survey and Ground verification conducted in 2025 The findings are based on a satellite survey conducted in 2025, followed by ground verification. The report highlights a critical issue—if infrastructure such as roads, green belts, or other planned developments are proposed in areas already occupied by illegal structures, it will significantly hinder the city’s planned growth. Illegal constructions likely to rise further Despite ongoing action, unauthorized constructions continue to increase. Recently, the district administration demolished two major illegal structures in the Kerwa catchment area. The National Green Tribunal has already issued directives to curb illegal construction in ecologically sensitive zones. Drives are also underway to remove encroachments in the catchment areas of the Upper Lake and Kaliasot River, as well as in low-density zones, agricultural land, and designated green belts. However, officials fear that the number of illegal constructions may rise further before the new master plan is implemented. Government response: Plan will address changing urban needs Sanjay Dubey, Additional Chief Secretary of Urban Development and Housing, said the master plan will include provisions aligned with the city’s evolving needs. He added that it is not limited to road networks but ensures comprehensive and structured development across all included areas. 58 new villages already largely developed Urban planner Dr. Sheetal Sharma said that the 58 new villages proposed in Master Plan-2047 are already significantly developed, even before the plan’s official release. These villages were not part of the 2021 draft. Residential and commercial projects have already started in these areas, as confirmed by land-use applications, RERA documents, and satellite imagery. 70% development expected before plan implementation Satellite analysis shows By the time the master plan is implemented, these areas are expected to be nearly 70% developed. Additionally, the Town and Country Planning (TCP) department approved over 100 projects between 2015 and 2023 in just 14 of these villages. Real estate boom: Farmhouses and Plotting In villages like Barkheda Salam and Mugaliya Chhap, plots and farmhouses are being sold at rates ranging from ₹500 to ₹1,500 per square foot. Along the Bhauri–Barkheda Salam Road, about 60% of plots in housing projects have already been booked. In Jatkhedi, at least 10 real estate projects have been completed, with hotels, colleges, and hospitals already operational. Urban planning at risk The delay in implementing the master plan, combined with rapid and often unauthorized development, poses a serious challenge to Bhopal’s future urban planning. Experts warn that without timely regulation and enforcement, achieving structured and sustainable growth will become increasingly difficult.