Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has proposed a major infrastructure project for Bengaluru, seeking Rs 36,950 crore from the central government. The project includes the construction of two urban tunnels and two elevated corridors aimed at alleviating the city’s severe traffic congestion.
Key Infrastructure Developments
During a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 31, Shivakumar emphasized the urgent need for these developments. “Feasibility studies have indicated that constructing urban tunnels and elevated corridors is essential for decongesting Bengaluru. These projects can be implemented using annual budget allocations for decongesting erstwhile National Highways,” he said.
The proposed tunnels will connect National Highway-7 from Hosur to Bellary Road and KR Pura to Mysuru Road. This approach, Shivakumar noted, will minimize traffic disruptions and reduce land acquisition costs.
Integrated Metro and Road Flyover Projects
In addition to the tunnels and elevated corridors, Shivakumar highlighted the rapid growth of Bengaluru in all directions. To address this, he proposed the extension of five metro corridors covering 129 km to connect peripheral areas and satellite towns. He urged the Union government to approve the integration of Metro and road flyovers in these upcoming projects.
Peripheral Ring Road and Flood Management
Shivakumar also sought approval for the Rs 27,000 crore Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) project, which includes Rs 21,000 crore for land acquisition and Rs 6,000 crore for civil construction. The 73 km, eight-lane PRR is being developed on a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) basis by the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA).
Additionally, the Deputy CM requested funds for a Rs 3,000 crore World Bank-funded project to address flooding issues in Bengaluru.
Summary of Requested Funds
| Project | Cost (Rs) |
|---|---|
| Urban Tunnels and Elevated Corridors | 36,950 crore |
| Peripheral Ring Road | 27,000 crore |
| Flood Management Project | 3,000 crore |
