Bengaluru’s ambitious plan to construct two major tunnel road corridors under the Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model has been approved by the state cabinet. This decision aims to alleviate the city’s notorious traffic congestion but comes with significant financial and environmental considerations. The proposed tunnels will connect Esteem Mall near Hebbal to HSR Layout/Silk Board and KR Pura to Mysuru Road.
The estimated cost for these projects is approximately ₹2,17,780 crore, with a concession period set at 30 years. The construction will be undertaken by private contractors, with toll collection rights granted to the developers for the duration of the concession period. The BOOT model allows private companies to finance, construct, and operate infrastructure projects, transferring ownership to the government after a specified period. While this model reduces immediate financial burden on the state, it shifts the cost to road users through tolls.
The toll rates are yet to be determined but are expected to be substantial given the project’s scale. Experts have raised concerns about the environmental impact of the tunnel construction. The tunneling process may disrupt groundwater flow, potentially leading to water shortages and structural damage in the city. Additionally, the carbon-intensive nature of tunnel construction could counteract efforts to reduce urban emissions. There is also apprehension that the tunnels may encourage private car usage, exacerbating pollution levels. While the project promises to reduce travel time and ease surface congestion, public opinion is divided.
Some residents welcome the initiative as a long-term solution to traffic problems, while others question the prioritization of such an expensive project over more sustainable alternatives like public transportation. Bengaluru’s tunnel road project represents a significant investment in the city’s infrastructure. However, it also underscores the need for a balanced approach that considers financial viability, environmental sustainability, and social equity. As the project progresses, it will be crucial to address these concerns to ensure that the benefits outweigh the costs.
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