Will the tunnel road project spell disaster for B'luru?
Synopsis
The BJP raises alarms over the Congress-led tunnel road project in Bengaluru, claiming it poses significant risks to the city. Opposition Leader Chalavadi Narayanaswamy highlights public discontent and urges a focus on surface roads instead. With a staggering budget and looming global tenders, will this project truly benefit the citizens of Bengaluru?
Key Takeaways
BJP criticizes the Congress government over the tunnel road project.
Opposition Leader highlights public discontent.
Concerns over toll fees and environmental impact.
Call for focus on surface roads and regional development.
Project budget set at Rs 17,780 crores .
Bengaluru, Oct 27 (NationPress) Criticizing the Congress administration in Karnataka for its ambitious tunnel road initiative, the BJP on Monday claimed that evidence indicates this undertaking could be detrimental to the city, yet Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar is "continuing with the project".
At a media briefing in Bengaluru, Opposition Leader in the Legislative Council, Chalavadi Narayanaswamy, noted that numerous organizations and environmental advocates have already voiced their opposition. "I don’t believe this serves the public interest. Users will face a toll of Rs 300-400 to access it. If such projects can be executed without imposing a burden on citizens, then proceed," he remarked, urging the government to focus on surface roads instead.
He expressed concerns that Bengaluru is experiencing overdevelopment while nearby cities are neglected. "Cease the overdevelopment of Bengaluru. Concentrate on Tumakuru, Kolar, and Chikkaballapur. Facilitate settlement there. Consider Kalaburagi — it's still one of the most underdeveloped districts in terms of per capita income," he urged, also requesting Industries Minister M.B. Patil to foster industry in Vijayapura.
The Karnataka government has greenlit a Rs 17,780-crore, 16-km tunnel road linking the northern and southern sections of the city, which is set to become India's longest upon completion. Despite pushback from citizens and experts, the government intends to issue global tenders shortly.
Narayanaswamy sharply criticized Priyank Kharge's comments regarding donations to the RSS, stating, "There’s no use responding to Priyank Kharge’s inquiries, as I doubt he possesses the insight for a substantial debate." He added, "Let the ED or Income Tax conduct their investigations. Will Priyank Kharge provide answers if they summon him?"
On the topic of RSS registration, he stated, "There is no legal obligation for the RSS to register," accusing Kharge of creating distractions. "Unable to fulfill his duties, he’s misleading the public through such diversions," he charged.
He attributed the city’s issues to decades of Congress governance, stating, "The BJP hasn’t governed this state for 40-50 years; it’s the Congress that has held power for approximately 63 years." He warned that Bengaluru had expanded recklessly beyond what Kempegowda had envisioned and cautioned that cities like Kolar and Tumakuru would soon be overwhelmed if expansion continued unchecked.
Point of View
It is crucial to present an unbiased perspective on the tunnel road project in Bengaluru. While the BJP raises valid concerns regarding public interests and regional development, the government’s commitment to infrastructure could also be viewed as an essential step for urban growth. A balanced dialogue is needed to ensure that both the needs of Bengaluru and its surrounding regions are addressed effectively.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cost of the tunnel road project?
The tunnel road project is approved at a cost of Rs 17,780 crores.
What are the concerns regarding the project?
Concerns include potential toll fees of Rs 300-400 and environmental impacts, as many organizations oppose the project.
How long will the tunnel road be?
The tunnel road will span 16 kilometers, making it the longest in India upon completion.
What alternatives are being suggested?
Opposition leaders urge the government to focus on improving surface roads and regional development in surrounding cities.
What is the current status of the project?
The Karnataka government plans to invite global tenders for the project soon, despite ongoing opposition.
