Bengaluru, Aug 18 (NationPress) In an effort to enhance traffic flow from K.R. Puram to Mekhri Circle in Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah officially opened the newly constructed flyover loop at Hebbal Junction, initiated by the BDA, by performing a ceremonial ribbon-cutting.

During the event, Siddaramaiah also kicked off Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar’s vintage motorcycle ride.

The foundation for the 700-meter loop road was established in 2023. With an investment of Rs 80 crore, the flyover is anticipated to alleviate traffic congestion by 30 percent. Recently, Shivakumar undertook a trial run on the flyover.

After the inauguration, Shivakumar addressed the media, stating: “Our administration is making strides to relieve the city's traffic bottlenecks. A new 1.5 km tunnel road will be built from Esteem Mall to Baptist Hospital. I have discussed the project's advantages, disadvantages, and financial support with the Chief Minister.”

“The loop from K.R. Puram to Mekhri Circle was constructed with an investment of Rs 80 crore. Another loop is set to be completed by November. The overall project cost amounts to Rs 300 crore, with plans to expand from two lanes to six lanes,” he elaborated.

“A tender has been issued for a 16.5 km tunnel road project, estimated at Rs 17,000 crore. To expedite the construction of the additional loop at Hebbal Junction, BDA Chairman Harris has taken charge,” he added.

“Individuals traveling from the airport, among others, have faced significant traffic delays. Our government is dedicated to resolving this challenge. I have outlined to the Chief Minister the measures we are taking to manage traffic congestion from Hebbal Junction to Silk Board Junction,” Shivakumar stated.

“I prioritize transparency. For me, getting the job done is essential, not financial gain. A young MP accused us of working for money. We don’t need money. Let them (BJP) point out even a single minor accomplishment during their term. They did not secure even a single rupee from the central government, which is embarrassing. Bengaluru is a global city, and even the Prime Minister has recognized this,” he remarked, directing his comments at BJP MP Tejasvi Surya.

In response to concerns that the new flyover may exacerbate congestion near Mekhri Circle, he said, “We cannot respond to every claim made.” He reiterated that the flyover is expected to decrease traffic congestion by 30 percent.

“This loop project was executed with great precision, considering that one side had the Metro line while the other had a railway track. The construction was completed with high technical standards,” he emphasized.

Regarding BJP's criticisms about the Dharmasthala matter, Shivakumar commented, “While religion can influence politics, politics should not intrude into religion. The BJP is politicizing faith for their own ends.”

When queried about the SIT's report submission to the government, he responded, “The Home Minister will provide clarity on that.”

On the Election Commission’s directive to Rahul Gandhi for document submission, he stated, “A separate press conference will address this.”

A motorcycle aficionado, Shivakumar rode his cherished Yezdi bike over the Hebbal flyover, garnering enthusiastic cheers and applause from supporters. He purchased the Yezdi during his college years, and it was refurbished last September.

Prominent attendees included Ministers Krishna Byre Gowda and Byrathi Suresh, BDA Chairman, MLA N.A. Haris, former MP and actress Ramya, Additional Chief Secretary Tushar Girinath, BDA Commissioner Manivannan, BBMP Chief Commissioner Maheshwar Rao, Deputy CM’s Secretary Rajendra Cholan, and many others.

In the upcoming phase, which is projected to yield even greater benefits, the BDA plans to develop a two-lane loop for vehicles arriving from the airport and Kodigehalli towards the city.