Engineers Defend Bengaluru Tunnel Road Project, Claim No Threat to Water Sources or Lalbagh

The proposed 16.75 km tunnel road project connecting Hebbal to Silk Board in Bengaluru through an underground corridor has reignited debate across the city, but engineering experts are strongly backing the project. The Institution of Engineers (India) has submitted a detailed report to the Karnataka government, arguing that the tunnel is a practical and effective solution to Bengaluru's chronic traffic problems.

According to the report, constructing the tunnel road would be significantly cheaper than building a metro tunnel. Union Minister Nitin Gadkari had earlier recommended the proposal, and engineers estimate the cost at ₹446.83 crore per kilometre, making it more economical than alternative mass-transit tunnel systems. They also assure that construction will not affect groundwater sources, public property, or sensitive zones.

Engineers Highlight Tunnel Road Benefits

The report outlines several benefits of the proposed tunnel road. Engineers argue that the project would ease vehicle congestion along one of Bengaluru's busiest stretches, reduce travel time, and help lower pollution levels. They project that once operational, the tunnel could substantially reduce accident rates by streamlining traffic flow.

In terms of travel expenses, engineers estimate a cost of ₹20 per kilometre, making it a viable option for regular commuters.

Addressing Opposition Concerns

Opposition parties have raised concerns about environmental safety, project feasibility, and long-term impact. However, engineers counter these arguments, stating that delaying such infrastructure would worsen Bengaluru's traffic crisis.

They warn that without major interventions like this tunnel, the city could face extreme congestion-so severe that it might turn Bengaluru into what they call a "dead city" due to immobilizing traffic conditions.

Cost-Effective and Minimal Disruption

The Institution of Engineers highlights that a road tunnel is far more cost-effective compared to metro tunnels. Their report reiterates that the project will not disturb sensitive areas such as Lalbagh or other public spaces. Advanced tunnelling techniques, they say, can ensure safety while minimizing surface-level disruptions.

Learning From Other States

The report also cites examples of successful tunnel-road projects in other parts of India. These case studies, combined with Bengaluru's urgent need for new traffic solutions, form the backbone of the engineers' argument supporting the project.

Government Receives Detailed Technical Support

The Karnataka government now has a comprehensive technical report advocating for the Hebbal-Silk Board tunnel road. The engineers stress that the project offers a realistic, environmentally safe, and economically viable way to relieve one of India's most congested urban corridors.

If approved, the tunnel could significantly improve mobility in Bengaluru while providing long-term relief from gridlock-something experts say the city desperately needs.