Scrap costly projects; try sustainable options, says campaign

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru

A campaign led by Kathyayini Chamaraj, in partnership with Jhatkaa.org, is urging the Karnataka government to scrap Bengaluru’s ?16,500 crore Tunnel Road and ?500 crore Sky-Deck projects. Over 750 people have already signed a petition demanding the reallocation of funds to address critical civic issues like public health, education and sustainable mobility. The Tunnel Road project, planned for early 2025, proposes an 18-km underground corridor from Hebbal to Central Silk Board, primarily benefiting private car users.

Critics argue it serves just 2.8 per cent of Bengaluru’s population while exacerbating inequality. Environmental concerns, including potential landslides, sinkholes, and groundwater disruption, further amplify opposition. Similarly, the ?500 crore Sky-Deck project – a 250-metre-high tower touted as a symbol of urban progress – is seen by many as an expensive tourist attraction with limited value for residents. Campaigners advocate reallocating funds to practical solutions like rainwater storage tunnels to combat water scarcity, expanding public transport to achieve 75 per cent usage, and promoting sustainable mobility options such as buses, suburban rail, cycling, and walkability.

They also call for investments in public healthcare, education, and waste management systems. As the government moves forward with these high-cost projects, campaigners urge leaders, including Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar, to prioritise inclusive and sustainable initiatives that truly benefit Bengaluru’s residents.