Expert Panel Unveils Critical Gaps in Bengaluru’s ₹19,000 Crore Tunnel Road Project

Introduction:
An expert committee has raised serious concerns over the Detailed Project Report (DPR) for Bengaluru’s ambitious ₹19,000 crore twin-tunnel road project, spanning 18.5 km from Hebbal to Silk Board. The committee, led by Siddanagouda Hegaraddi of BMRCL, identified over 120 significant flaws, including inadequate geological studies, environmental risks, and unrealistic traffic projections. These revelations have cast doubt on the project’s feasibility and raised questions about its alignment with Bengaluru’s long-term urban planning goals.

Key Findings of the Expert Panel:

• Inadequate Geological Investigations:
  The DPR relied on only four soil samples for its ground investigation report, lacking comprehensive studies to locate groundwater or aquifers along the proposed alignment. This oversight poses potential risks during construction and operation. Bangalore Mirror
• Environmental Concerns:
  The inclusion of a tunnel shaft within Lalbagh Botanical Garden has been deemed environmentally unacceptable. Additionally, the project lacks crucial groundwater mapping through Electrical Resistivity Tomography (ERT), raising concerns about its environmental impact. The Times of India
• Unrealistic Traffic Projections:
  The DPR’s traffic forecasts are based on outdated assumptions, ignoring shifts towards metro and public transport systems. The projected lane configuration also appears inconsistent with the anticipated traffic demand up to 2041. english.varthabharati.in
• Cost Estimation Discrepancies:
  The cost estimates in the DPR appear lower than similar projects in Mumbai, despite Bengaluru’s complex geology. The committee suggests increasing tunneling costs by 10-15% to account for unforeseen conditions. Moneycontrol
• Safety and Design Flaws:
  Designs for entry and exit ramps near key junctions have been noted as potential traffic and safety hazards. The committee recommends reevaluation of alignment, design, traffic projections, and cost assessments to ensure engineering and financial feasibility. The Times of India

Implications for Bengaluru’s Urban Planning:

The expert panel’s findings underscore the need for a comprehensive review of the tunnel road project. Bengaluru’s urban planning must prioritize sustainable and inclusive solutions that align with the city’s long-term mobility and environmental goals. The current approach, characterized by rushed planning and inadequate studies, risks exacerbating existing urban challenges rather than addressing them effectively.

Conclusion:

The expert committee’s revelations highlight significant gaps in the planning and execution of Bengaluru’s proposed tunnel road project. Addressing these concerns is crucial to ensure that the project contributes positively to the city’s infrastructure without compromising environmental sustainability or public safety. A thorough reassessment, incorporating comprehensive studies and stakeholder consultations, is essential to align the project with Bengaluru’s evolving urban needs and aspirations.