Karnataka’s Deputy Chief Minister, D K Shivakumar, announced on Thursday that a groundbreaking proposal for a 190 km-long tunnel aimed at alleviating traffic congestion in the city is in the works. Within the next 45 days, the state government plans to invite public tenders for this ambitious project.
During a press conference at Vidhana Soudha, Shivakumar stated, “We have proposed a 190 km-long tunnel road to tackle traffic congestion in Bengaluru, and eight qualified companies are on board. These companies will be responsible for submitting a comprehensive feasibility report. Within the next 45 days, we aim to initiate the process of calling for public tenders.”
The selected companies will conduct a thorough study to determine the specifications of the tunnel road, including the number of lanes, the starting and ending points, and the potential expansion across the city. Given the massive scale and funding requirements of the project, Shivakumar emphasized that it would be executed in several stages.
“We have identified priority areas covering 190 km, including Bellary Road, Old Madras Road, Esteem Mall Junction to Mekhri Circle, Miller Road, Chalukya Circle, Trinity Circle, Sarjapur Road, Hosur Road, Kanakapura Road to Krishna Rao Park, Mysore Road to Sirsi Circle, Magadi Road, Tumakuru Road to Yeshwantpur Junction, Outer Ring Road, Goraguntepalya, KR Puram, Silk Board areas,” he explained.
Highlighting the urgency, Shivakumar stressed the need for at least a four-lane tunnel road to address Bengaluru’s escalating traffic woes. He also acknowledged the challenges posed by the recent monsoon season and directed chief engineers to expedite critical works, including drainage improvements.
In response to concerns raised about traffic congestion on the Outer Ring Road, Shivakumar revealed plans to visit the area on October 7. He urged Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike engineers to collaborate with traffic police to promptly address potholes and encouraged the public to report potholes to the BBMP Commissioner for immediate attention.
Addressing the broader issue of road congestion in Bengaluru, Shivakumar indicated the state’s intention to seek assistance from the Central government. He shared that discussions had already taken place with Union Minister Nitin Gadkari, who offered positive feedback and advice on the matter. The proposal for assistance will be submitted to the Centre once finalized.