How is the Karnataka government tackling Bengaluru's traffic congestion with a new toll road?
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Synopsis
In a decisive move to address the escalating traffic congestion in Bengaluru, the Karnataka government has unveiled plans for a new 117-km toll road, the Bengaluru Business Corridor. This ambitious project is expected to cut traffic issues by 40% within two years, offering a glimmer of hope for commuters in the bustling city.
Key Takeaways
- 117-km toll road to be built in Bengaluru.
- Aim to reduce traffic congestion by 40%.
- The project will be managed by the Bengaluru Development Authority.
- Compensation schemes for affected farmers will be implemented.
- The project is set to be completed within two years.
Bengaluru, Oct 16 (NationPress) The Congress-led Karnataka government announced on Thursday plans to construct a 117-km toll road within Bengaluru city over the next two years, with the objective of reducing traffic congestion in the city by 40%.
The upcoming toll road, named the Bengaluru Business Corridor (BBC), will be developed by the Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA).
During a press briefing at the Vidhana Soudha, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar revealed the initiative following a Cabinet meeting.
"Today, the Karnataka government has made a significant decision in the Cabinet meeting. I am announcing that the previous government had earmarked 117 km of road in the northern and southern regions of the peripheral ring road. We have now rebranded it as the Bengaluru Business Corridor. This corridor is located within the city limits of Bengaluru," he stated.
The state government aims to finish constructing the 117-km road within the next two years.
The corridor, which will span 100 metres in width, will be developed in two segments – BBC-1 and BBC-2 – covering the southern and northern areas of Bengaluru.
"Upon completion, this initiative will lead to a reduction in traffic congestion by up to 40%," Shivakumar emphasized.
"Of the 100-metre width, 65 metres will be designated for the road, including service lanes, and 5 metres will be allocated for a planned double-decker Metro project. The existing Bengaluru-Mysuru road also measures 65 metres in width. On the remaining land within the 100-metre corridor, farmers will be allowed to engage in commercial activities instead of receiving cash compensation, keeping their interests in consideration," he added.
He confirmed that no new land acquisition will be necessary for the project.
"All legal challenges have been unsuccessful. Even after 17 years since the land was designated, and with pressures to de-notify, we will proceed with the road. Even opposition MLAs have expressed support for the project," he claimed.
"For lands within corporation limits, compensation will be twice the guidance value, while for rural areas, it will be three times the guidance value," he specified.
"In the northern section, initial costs were estimated at Rs 27,000 crore. However, with the state government's initiatives, it will be reduced to below Rs 10,000 crore. I believe most landowners will prefer land-based compensation, but cash options will also be available," Shivakumar stated.
"Previously, governments had earmarked lands from Tumakuru Road to Electronics City and further towards Mysuru Road. However, no steps were taken to advance the project. One previous government even contemplated abandoning it due to its proximity to the NICE Corridor," he pointed out.
"Today, Bengaluru urgently requires an alternative route. After our (Congress) administration assumed power, we decided against de-notifying any land designated for roads. To alleviate Bengaluru's traffic issues, the BDA will oversee the implementation of this project," Shivakumar emphasized.
He also mentioned that while no land compensation provisions existed earlier, the state government has decided to provide compensation to farmers.
"Current schemes include 60:40 and 50:50. Given that this is a commercial roadway, 35% of the developed land will be returned to farmers as compensation. If they prefer commercial space, they will receive 35%; if they choose residential, they will be allotted 40%," he explained.
"New pricing structures will be established, and two types of Transferable Development Rights will be introduced. Farmers will also have the option for Floor Area Ratio," he concluded.
The road will traverse through Kogilu, Yelahanka, Electronics City, Mysuru Road, and the Bengaluru International Exhibition Centre. Of the total distance, 75 km will be located in the northern section of the city and the other part in the south.
Point of View
The Karnataka government's initiative to introduce the Bengaluru Business Corridor stands as a significant step towards alleviating the chronic traffic congestion plaguing Bengaluru. This project not only aims to improve commuting efficiency but also shows a commitment to infrastructure development, which is essential for the city's economic growth. Transparency in land compensation policies also reflects a progressive approach that prioritizes community interests.
NationPress
16/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Bengaluru Business Corridor?
The Bengaluru Business Corridor is a proposed 117-km toll road aimed at reducing traffic congestion in Bengaluru by up to 40%.
Who is responsible for the project?
The project will be executed by the Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA).
How wide will the corridor be?
The corridor will span 100 metres in width.
Will there be compensation for affected farmers?
Yes, the state government has decided to provide compensation to farmers whose land is affected by the project.
When is the expected completion date of the project?
The project is anticipated to be completed within two years.
