Bengaluru’s Ballari Road To See Major Overhaul: Key Junctions To Get Underpasses, Service Road Repairs

To tackle growing traffic congestion on Ballari Road in Bengaluru, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) is considering the construction of underpasses at key junctions such as Kodigehalli, Byatarayanapura, Jakkur, and Allalasandra. These measures aim to eliminate traffic signals and streamline travel along the crucial route to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA), as reported by TOI.

However, the ongoing Blue Line Metro work by the Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Limited (BMRCL) has exacerbated traffic on service roads. NHAI Project Director KB Jayakumar acknowledged the difficulties in building the underpasses, citing the presence of large pillars from the elevated national highway corridor and land availability issues. He stated, "Constructing underpasses would help ease traffic, but the challenges of land acquisition and the elevated corridor infrastructure make it complex."

The proposed upgrades include:

• Underpass at IAF Yelahanka Station: A 750-meter underpass will be built using the cut-and-cover method to ease traffic for motorists heading to the airport.
• Sadahalli Underpass: This underpass aims to reduce congestion near the toll gate.
• Restoration of Service Roads: Service roads affected by Metro work, particularly between Allalasandra and Jakkur Junction, will be restored to improve traffic flow for Yelahanka commuters.
• Additional Developments: NHAI also plans to install an EV charging station at Hebbal, create new bus bays, and introduce public amenities on available land. The restoration of service roads near Esteem Mall is expected to alleviate peak-hour traffic.

Furthermore, NHAI will take measures to improve accident-prone zones, including the section near Café Coffee Day in Yelahanka, following a directive from Revenue Minister Krishna Byre Gowda.

These projects are designed to reduce congestion, improve safety, and enhance convenience for commuters on this vital route to Bengaluru's airport.