Varthur-Gunjur Road Decade of Development Struggles and Traffic Woes
Over a decade ago, local residents of Varthur and Gunjur in Bengaluru rallied together to demand a ban on heavy trucks during peak hours on the narrow Varthur-Gunjur Road, which forms a critical link between Whitefield and Sarjapur. Their protest led to restrictions on large goods carriers, but, unfortunately, their fears have materialised as congestion has steadily worsened over the years. The planned widening of the road—initially envisioned as a solution—has been plagued by delays, leaving the area in a state of gridlock and frustration.
Despite the region’s rapid development, the infrastructure has struggled to keep pace. New schools, residential complexes, and commercial establishments have sprung up in this area, transforming the once quiet outskirts of Bengaluru into a bustling urban hub. However, with this development comes the inevitable surge in vehicle numbers, which has overwhelmed the existing road infrastructure. Jagadeesh Reddy, a long-time resident of Varthur, reflects the sentiments of many locals when he says, “We were excited when our village was merged with BBMP in 2007, expecting swift development, but the road widening project has dragged on for years.” The frustration is palpable, as commuting along the stretch has become a daily struggle, often resulting in hours of delay due to traffic jams.
The delay in road expansion has been attributed to several issues, including land acquisition challenges and the demolition of properties. As of December 2024, the Karnataka Road Development Corporation Limited (KRDCL) has been able to acquire only a portion of the properties required for the project. Of the 195 properties targeted for acquisition, only 98 have been compensated, and the rest remain pending. The BBMP, which is in charge of acquiring properties along a 600-metre stretch, faces its own set of obstacles. The new deadline for completing the project has been set for July 2025, but with ongoing issues, it remains to be seen whether this target will be met.
From a sustainability perspective, the delay in road widening highlights the growing need for smarter urban planning that balances development with long-term environmental and civic needs. While the area’s urbanisation has brought in economic growth, it has also resulted in severe congestion, leading to higher emissions and poorer air quality. Road expansions, though necessary, should be paired with a broader vision that includes sustainable transport solutions like cycling lanes, better public transport options, and green spaces that can help alleviate the strain on the environment. This issue calls for a shift towards sustainable urban development that considers the future of Bengaluru’s growing population while also focusing on reducing its carbon footprint.
In conclusion, the Varthur-Gunjur Road situation serves as a microcosm of Bengaluru’s larger infrastructure struggles. While the city continues to grow rapidly, the lag in essential infrastructure projects not only impedes mobility but also exacerbates civic and environmental challenges. The residents of this region are left with a stark reminder that urban growth, without adequate investment in sustainable infrastructure, leads to an increase in congestion, pollution, and long-term health risks. To address these issues, a concerted effort is needed, where authorities prioritise timely project completion and integrate sustainability into urban planning to ensure better quality of life for Bengaluru’s residents.
