Is the Karnataka Tunnel Project a Waste? Shivakumar Questions Tejasvi Surya's Maturity
Synopsis
Discover the heated exchange between Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar and MP Tejasvi Surya over the Karnataka tunnel project. As tensions rise, Shivakumar labels Surya 'immature' and questions his experience, sparking debates on urban transport and political accountability.
Key Takeaways
Shivakumar criticizes Surya's experience.
Debate over transportation infrastructure intensifies.
The importance of expert consultation in project planning is highlighted.
Financial contributions to the metro project are under scrutiny.
Political accountability remains a key issue in urban planning.
Bengaluru, Oct 30 (NationPress) In the ongoing controversy surrounding the Karnataka tunnel project, Deputy Chief Minister D. K. Shivakumar has fiercely criticized Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya, labeling him as "immature, inexperienced, and a waste material".
Speaking to the media in Bengaluru, Shivakumar described Tejasvi Surya as "still a boy" who "lacks experience".
"Who is this Tejasvi Surya to suggest that the Tunnel Road project should not be implemented? Let him first become a Union Minister and then propose a resolution in Parliament to ban tunnel roads across the nation and the world," he stated.
When questioned about Tejasvi Surya's claim that the Tunnel Road project should have been developed after consulting professionals, Shivakumar replied, "Out of courtesy, I allowed him to meet and express his views, and now he wanders around making baseless statements. However, I refuse to lower myself to his level and comment on him. Tejasvi Surya clearly does not grasp how the world operates."
"Why does he travel in a car?" Shivakumar sarcastically inquired.
"I once remarked that girls don't marry boys who don't own a car. He seems to have taken that statement to heart. Why is he driving a car then? His family should use the metro or public buses. Shouldn't BJP MLAs also utilize metro trains, autorickshaws, and public transportation? Who has forbidden that? Why do they require cars then? Bengaluru is home to over 1.3 crore vehicles—can anyone suggest we stop using them?" he countered.
Responding to Tejasvi Surya's alleged comment that the tunnel road project is intended to assist Shivakumar in marrying off his daughter, the Deputy CM retorted, "That's precisely why I referred to him as immature. Can you (journalists) cover events using public transport? Can schoolchildren be sent to school via public transport instead of school vehicles?"
"This state received the metro due to our efforts. What did they accomplish when they were in power? What did they bring from the Centre? How many pillars did they erect for the metro? How much funding did they secure? The Central government contributes merely 11 to 12 percent of the project cost. We handle all expenses, including land acquisition," Shivakumar stated.
Shivakumar noted that he would respond if senior BJP leaders like R. Ashoka, C.N. Ashwath Narayan, Basavaraj Bommai, or Jagadish Shettar raised valid points as they understand these issues.
Point of View
It's clear that political tensions are rising. While both sides express their opinions with passion, it is essential to focus on the project's implications for Bengaluru's infrastructure and the broader public interest. As always, we stand committed to delivering unbiased coverage of the issues that matter to our audience.
NationPress
2 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What sparked the conflict between Shivakumar and Surya?
The conflict arose over differing opinions on the implementation of the Karnataka tunnel project, with Shivakumar criticizing Surya's lack of experience.
What were Shivakumar's main criticisms of Tejasvi Surya?
Shivakumar described Surya as immature and inexperienced, questioning his authority to comment on the tunnel project.
What is the significance of the Karnataka tunnel project?
The project aims to improve urban transportation in Bengaluru, addressing the city's growing traffic issues.
How did Shivakumar respond to Surya's comments on consultation with experts?
Shivakumar dismissed Surya's concerns, stating that he allowed Surya to voice his opinions but would not stoop to his level.
What are the financial contributions to the metro project?
According to Shivakumar, the Central government contributes only 11 to 12 percent of the metro project costs, while the state bears most expenses.
