Bengaluru's 18-KM Tunnel Road Faces Opposition: Clamour Over Tunnel Beda, Metro Beku Grows

The tunnel road project, a vision of Deputy CM DK Shivakumar for Bengaluru, has sparked a debate among local politicians and experts. Critics argue for a focus on expanding public transport, particularly the Metro and BMTC buses, as a more efficient solution to the city's traffic and environmental issues.

Bangalore Central BJP MP P C Mohan has been vocal in his opposition to the project. He has taken his concerns to the BBMP Commissioner, highlighting the project's significant cost of ₹8,043 crore and questioning its effectiveness in addressing traffic congestion. Mohan advocates for alternatives that bolster public transportation infrastructure.

It must be noted that To date, BBMP has spent Rs 14.2 crore on the project, which includes Rs 9.5 crore paid to Rodic Consultants for the DPR and Rs 4.7 crore to Türkiye-based Altinok Consulting for a feasibility study on the same route: the north-south corridor (Hebbal-Silk Board Junction). In comparison, the DPR for the 37-km Hebbal-Sarjapur corridor of Bengaluru Metro, prepared by RINA Consulting, cost just Rs 1.5 crore.

Concerns Over Tunnel Project's Impact

Despite the government's insistence on the necessity of the 18-km tunnel from Hebbal to Silk Board Junction, opposition voices are growing louder. The BJP has initiated a campaign against what they describe as an "unscientific decision." Mohan, in particular, points out numerous issues in the project's detailed report, warning of negative consequences for Bengaluru's mobility and environment.

Mohan's campaign, encapsulated by the slogan "Tunnel Beda, Metro Beku," calls for a shift in focus towards enhancing the Namma Metro and BMTC services. This stance is supported by experts from the Indian Institute of Science, who also oppose the tunnel project due to its enormous estimated cost and potential environmental impact.

The tunnel project, intended to link Esteem Mall in Hebbal with Silk Board, is under scrutiny for its feasibility and economic justification. Critics like Mohan suggest that improving and expanding existing public transport systems could offer a more sustainable and cost-effective solution to the city's traffic woes.