BBMP Seeks Funding for Twin Tunnel Road Project, Aims to Alleviate Bengaluru’s Traffic Congestion
BBMP Invites Tenders to Secure Loans for Capital Costs
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has initiated a funding process to support the construction of a 16.67 km-long twin tunnel road, set to be built 120 feet below ground level. To raise the necessary funds for its share of the capital costs, BBMP has invited tenders to secure loans with lower interest rates from nationalized banks and private agencies. The bids will be opened on January 8, with BBMP expected to choose the lender offering the most competitive interest rate.
Twin Tunnel Road Project Details and Timelines
The twin tunnel road project is being carried out under the Build, Operate, Transfer (BOT) model. The selected contractor will be allowed to collect toll fees for 20 years before transferring the infrastructure to BBMP. The estimated cost of the project is Rs 149.81 billion, with BBMP needing to arrange Rs 80 billion. The remaining amount will be contributed by the private contractor.
Traffic Dynamics and Benefits of the Project
The twin tunnel road project aims to significantly improve Bengaluru’s traffic dynamics by providing a faster and more efficient commuting option. Currently, it takes approximately 90 minutes to travel the 16 km distance from Silk Board to Hebbal due to heavy traffic, with an average speed of 10–15 km/h. Once the tunnel road is operational, the same distance will be covered in just 20 minutes.
Key Features and Infrastructure of the Twin Tunnel Road
The north-south corridor will include key entry and exit points, such as Esteem Mall in Hebbal, KSRP Junction at Silk Board, Mehkri Circle near Palace Grounds, Race Course Road, and Ashoka Pillar near Lalbagh. The tunnel will be constructed 120 feet underground, beneath the existing Namma Metro tunnels, to minimize disruption to surface infrastructure during construction.
BBMP’s Commitment to Completing the Project on Time
BS Prahlad, the Chief Engineer at BBMP, expressed confidence in completing the project within the scheduled timeline, emphasizing that the twin tunnel road would play a crucial role in addressing the city’s traffic congestion. The BBMP plans to invite global tenders for the project by the end of the month, with a view to completing the project in the near future.
