Bengaluru's 7.5-Km Hebbal-Hennur Stormwater Drain Upgrade: What’s Planned For Nagawara, Kempapura, And Beyond

Bengaluru's civic body is set to transform the 7.5-km stormwater drain between Hebbal and Hennur, which runs parallel to the Outer Ring Road (ORR). The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BB) plans to acquire private properties within a 50-metre radius of the drain for public use. This initiative includes beautification works and the construction of a two-lane, partly-elevated road with a service lane for walkers and cyclists.

The project, known as 'Janara Kaluve’ (citizens drain), is spearheaded by Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar. It aims to cover approximately 28 km of primary stormwater drains adjacent to vacant lands. The goal is to promote ecology, encourage non-motorist transport, create public spaces, reduce flood risks, and curb encroachments.

Focus on Flood Resilience

The stormwater drain passes through five key junctions: Hebbal, Nagawara, Kempapura, Veeranapalya, and Hennur. The BBMP has identified about 6.1 acres of land for public use within the 50-metre buffer zone that spans 191 acres. In areas where land is scarce, elevated corridors will be constructed.

Notably, the section between Nagawara and Veeranapalya has a history of overflowing. BBMP Engineer-in-Chief BS Prahlad stated that no part of the existing stormwater drain would be used for creating amenities such as entry plazas, pavilions, wetland boardwalks, pedestrian crossings, kids' play areas, community centres, recreational parks, or multipurpose grounds.

Inspiration from Koramangala Valley

Prahlad mentioned that the plan was developed based on their experience redesigning the Koramangala valley between Bellandur and KR Puram. "New facilities are planned in the buffer zone of the stormwater drain without altering the ecosystem," he said. "The project consists of road space and a dedicated service lane that is flood resilient and helps prevent encroachments."

The redevelopment of this 7.5-km stormwater buffer zone is scheduled to begin on September 8. Prahlad also noted that nearly all work on the Koramangala valley project had been completed, including constructing a sewage treatment plant (STP). They are now waiting for BWSSB to remove unauthorised inlets where domestic sewage flows into the drain.

Budget Allocation

In its budget for 2024-25, BBMP allocated Rs 100 crore for improvements to buffer zones of stormwater drains. This funding will support various initiatives aimed at enhancing these areas while maintaining ecological balance.

This ambitious project promises significant benefits for Bengaluru's residents by improving infrastructure and promoting sustainable urban development.