Bengaluru Unveils Ambitious Multi-Billion Dollar Plan for Tunnel and Double-Decker Roads to Combat Traffic Congestion

Bengaluru is set to undergo a significant transformation in its urban mobility infrastructure with the Karnataka government's announcement of a monumental investment of Rs 1,500 billion (approximately $18 billion USD) dedicated to addressing the city's persistent traffic challenges. This comprehensive strategy includes plans to establish 40 kilometers of new tunnel roadways and more than 44 kilometers of double-decker roads across the city. The initiative, unveiled by the Karnataka Chief Minister at the Katalyst Connect event, is part of a broader vision to enhance mobility and sustain Bengaluru's role as a global information technology hub. A key component of this plan is the proposed 1.6-mile (approximately 2.5 km) tunnel road beneath the notoriously congested Hebbal Junction, a project aimed at providing a signal-free bypass to alleviate one of the city's worst bottlenecks. This specific tunnel, awarded to Rithwik Projects Private Limited with an estimated cost of $119 million (around Rs 990 crore), is expected to be completed within 18 months, with an initial focus on detailed design, utility relocation, and junction improvements. Beyond immediate traffic relief, these infrastructure upgrades are positioned as catalysts for the city's economic growth, facilitating smoother freight and commuter movement. The government also plans to expand the Metro network to 500 km by next year, further integrating public transport into the city's development corridors. This multi-modal approach underscores a commitment to create integrated business ecosystems and residential areas, ensuring that new infrastructure supports not just connectivity but also sustainable urban expansion.