Bengaluru 10-Lane Road Set to Revolutionise Connectivity
Bengaluru’s ambitious Major Arterial Road (MAR) project is nearing completion and is set to revolutionise connectivity between the southern and western parts of the city. The 10.8-kilometre stretch, running from Challaghatta on Mysuru Road to Kadabagere Cross on Magadi Road, is expected to slash travel time drastically from 1.5 hours to just 10 minutes. The road will act as a significant alternative to the tolled NICE corridor, located only a couple of kilometres away. The project is not just about improving commuting; it is poised to enhance the city’s overall infrastructure, offering long-term benefits for residents and businesses alike.
Originally budgeted at ₹465 crore, the cost of the Major Arterial Road project has risen to ₹585 crore due to escalating expenses and unforeseen delays. Despite these challenges, the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has successfully acquired the necessary 321.1 acres of land for the project, with construction passing through several key villages, including Kambipura, K Krishna Sagara, and Kommaghatta. These strategic locations will help integrate the urban and rural sectors, making the road a vital connection for commuters in the region. The road is expected to alleviate traffic congestion, enhancing travel for thousands of daily commuters while boosting economic activity in the surrounding areas.
Construction Delays and Roadblocks
While significant progress has been made, the Major Arterial Road project has faced numerous delays since its inception in 2011. Tenders for the project were only issued in 2017, with construction beginning a year later. The original completion date of August 2019 has long passed, and the project has encountered several hurdles, including pending approvals from the forest department for the diversion of land in the Sulikere reserve forest. This issue has held up the final stages of the road’s construction. Additionally, the construction of a railway underpass and roadwork near the Challaghatta Metro depot are still incomplete.
Despite these setbacks, a BDA official has expressed optimism, stating that all remaining issues are being addressed, and the road is expected to be operational within the next two months. The completion of the Major Arterial Road will finally bring an end to the years-long delays, offering commuters a much-needed upgrade in infrastructure. However, the project’s long wait has sparked discussions about the efficiency of urban development processes and the need for faster execution of such vital projects in the future.
The Sustainability Angle: A Greener Future for Bengaluru
The Major Arterial Road offers not only improved connectivity but also the potential for a more sustainable urban transport model. By cutting down on travel time and reducing the reliance on the tolled NICE corridor, the new road will help alleviate congestion, a key factor in Bengaluru’s growing pollution problem. As one of the most congested cities in India, Bengaluru’s traffic woes contribute to high levels of air pollution, which has a direct impact on public health. The new road is expected to reduce the time spent on the road, which could lead to lower fuel consumption and, in turn, reduce carbon emissions.
Additionally, the project has the potential to encourage the use of more sustainable forms of transport. With improved infrastructure, public transport options such as buses and metro systems may see increased ridership, as residents find it easier to access these services. The road’s strategic location near key residential and business hubs will also promote economic development in less developed areas, potentially reducing the urban sprawl that leads to increased vehicle usage and environmental degradation. This forward-thinking approach to urban planning integrates sustainability with infrastructure development, making the Major Arterial Road a model project for other cities to follow.
A Model for Urban Development and Civic Progress
The completion of the Major Arterial Road marks a significant milestone in Bengaluru’s ongoing efforts to modernise its infrastructure and improve the quality of life for its residents. However, it also highlights the challenges faced by the city’s urban planners in balancing rapid growth with sustainability. As Bengaluru continues to expand, it must ensure that the development of its roads, public transport systems, and other infrastructure projects is aligned with long-term goals for environmental sustainability, civic welfare, and equitable access to resources.
While the Major Arterial Road will certainly reduce commute times and boost connectivity, it also underscores the need for continued investment in green infrastructure. Bengaluru’s future urban planning must prioritise projects that not only improve efficiency but also foster a greener, more sustainable environment. As cities around the world grapple with the effects of climate change and overpopulation, Bengaluru’s Major Arterial Road project offers valuable lessons in how to build cities that are both functional and environmentally conscious.
