Bengaluru’s ₹17,698 Crore Twin Tunnel Prject Hits Another Delay as Bidders Stay Away

The proposed Twin Tunnel Roads project from Hebbal Esteem Mall to Central Silk Board has been delayed once again, as Bengaluru Smart Infrastructure Limited (BSMILE) has extended the bidding deadline to 11 November. The repeated extensions have raised questions about the project's future, as major infrastructure companies continue to hold back from participating.

The project, estimated at ₹17,698 crore, is to be developed under a build operate transfer model by a special purpose vehicle. It was first announced on 16 July, with the tender expected to close on 3 September. Since then, the deadline has been moved several times, first to 30 September, then to 29 October, and now to 11 November.

Repeated Postponements

The continued delays have drawn comparisons with the cancelled steel bridge project proposed during Siddaramaiah's first term as Chief Minister between 2013 and 2018. The Twin Tunnel project aims to create a three lane tunnel connecting Hebbal Junction and Silk Board Junction along the north south corridor, easing one of the city's most congested routes.

Although around ten firms initially expressed interest, including Tata Projects and the Adani Group, most appear hesitant to move forward.

Reluctance from Major Firms

Industry sources suggest that potential bidders are concerned about the project's feasibility and the risk of legal challenges. Public interest litigations have also been filed, adding to the uncertainty surrounding the project.

Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, however, remains confident. He said, "Seeing our interest, people are supporting us. We are confident it will be implemented."

Despite his assurance, the lack of strong participation and repeated extensions reflect deeper issues that need attention. For Bengaluru's infrastructure plans to progress, the authorities must build confidence among developers and address the concerns that have slowed this ambitious project.