Archive · 17 Aug 2025
Bengaluru's Tunnel Road Project Faces Scrutiny Amidst Construction Plans
Bengaluru is constructing a long tunnel road to help people travel faster.
The tunnel will run from Hebbal to Silk Board, and cost about Rs 17,698 crore.
Experts have debated whether it is a good idea, and some worry about the environmental impact.
The government plans to use a special financial model, with private companies helping to pay for it.
Buses will be allowed, and they might even get their own lane.
The project is expected to take around 4 years to finish, and drivers will pay a toll to use the tunnel.
Bengaluru is building a 16.75 km tunnel road from Hebbal to Silk Board, facing criticism from experts.
The project, costing Rs 17,698 crore, is deemed suitable for Bengaluru's rocky terrain by experts.
The government plans to acquire about 40.6 acres of land for ramps and shafts to avoid traffic bottlenecks.
Buses, public and electric, will be allowed in the tunnel, potentially with a dedicated lane.
The project's toll is estimated around Rs 330, and the completion timeline is about 48-63 months.
- Who
- B-SMILE (Bengaluru Smart Infrastructure Limited) is executing the project.
- What
- A 16.75 km tunnel road project connecting Hebbal and Silk Board junction.
- When
- Toll collection expected to start around 2030-31.
- Where
- Bengaluru, connecting Hebbal and Silk Board.
- Why
- To address the missing connectivity between Silk Board and Hebbal and ease traffic congestion.
Critics
Supporters
Scientific Validity
Critics
IISc experts call the project unscientific.
Supporters
B-SMILE states that detailed traffic studies offer an end-to-end solution that disperses traffic.
Alignment with Mobility Plans
Critics
DULT says the project does not align with the Comprehensive Mobility Plan.
Supporters
B-SMILE states the tunnel is essential for north-south and east-west traffic movement.
- Project Cost
- Rs 17,698 crore
- Tunnel Length
- 16.75 km
- Land Acquisition
- 40.6 acres
- Toll Estimate
- Rs 330
- Timeline
- 48-63 months
- Bus Access
- Allowed