B’luru tunnel proposal sparks controversy over cost and necessity

Bengaluru, NT Bureau:  n October 2023, Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar proposed a 4 km tunnel road between Mehkri Circle and Hebbal Flyover.

This proposal has sparked debate over its necessity, cost, and potential impact. The projected cost of the tunnel ranges from Rs. 3,000 to 6,000 crores, with the State Government claiming it will alleviate traffic congestion towards Kempegowda International Airport.

However, the need for the tunnel is questionable. Congestion is primarily observed at the ends of the 4 km stretch, Hebbal Flyover and Mehkri Circle. The ongoing construction of a new ramp near Hebbal Flyover is expected to ease this congestion.

Additionally, the road between Hebbal Flyover and Mehkri Circle is already wide, signal-free, and equipped with service roads and underpasses. Residents have voiced their concerns, highlighting the complexities of tunnelling in Bengaluru.

"When the metro was being constructed, tunnelling was avoided for most routes due to expense and the hard granite in Bengaluru. Tunnelling will be cumbersome and expensive. Unlike abroad, the effectiveness of the shock absorbers used here is questionable. Also, maintenance of underpasses during rains is a challenge both in terms of cleanliness and waterlogging. What about tunnels?” one resident questioned.

Several critics argue that the project contradicts efforts to reduce car dependency and promote public transportation. The tunnel would primarily serve cars, often single-occupancy vehicles, rather than enhancing public transport options, walking and cycling.

Bengaluru already has a well-connected metro system for fast transportation. Concerns about air quality and the environmental impact of promoting car infrastructure were also raised. Rajkumar Dugar, the Founder and Convenor of Citizens For Citizens (C4C), argued that the tunnel project might encourage private vehicle use, worsening Bengaluru's traffic problems.

"Did anybody even ask for a tunnel road there? The public demands many other things the government could fulfil," he said. Dugar advocated for improving public transport, citing projects like the Metro and Suburban Rail to the Airport, which are expected to significantly reduce road traffic on the proposed tunnel stretch.

The financial implications of the tunnel, estimated at Rs. 500 crores, raise concerns about its cost-effectiveness. Dugar proposed redirecting funds to urgent projects like acquiring 5,000 electric buses, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient public transportation system.

Environmental and logistical challenges associated with tunnel construction, combined with the potential redundancy due to the approved Metro line and Suburban Rail corridor along the same route.