Rs 400-crore boost for Bengaluru ORR stretch: Here's what to expect

Bengaluru city

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has announced a special grant of Rs 400 crore for the revamp of the 22.7-km stretch of the Outer Ring Road between KR Puram and Central Silk Broad, a vital corridor for multinational companies (MNCs) and start-ups in Bengaluru.

In his budget speech, Dr Harish Kumar K, Special Commissioner (Finance), said the project will feature a white-topped carriageway, uniform service roads, upgraded public utilities, small parks, and air-conditioned bus shelters. The redevelopment work is expected to begin in about four months.

“The 22.7-km road will be developed as per world-class standards in collaboration with the Government of Karnataka and Bengaluru Metro Rail Corporation Ltd,” Dr Harish Kumar K said.

A comprehensive Detailed Project Report (DPR) will be finalised within three months, after which the tendering process will commence. The government has put forward an initial design to upgrade the ORR to world-class standards. This corridor, a vital economic hub contributing 32 per cent of India's total IT revenue, has been plagued by traffic congestion for a long time. Phase 2A of the Metro construction is currently underway along this route, with completion anticipated by mid-2026. However, work on the ORR will begin in sections where Metro construction has already been completed.

According to the report, the two-lane service road along with ORR will be widened to a uniform 6-7.5 metres and resurfaced using stone matrix asphalting, known for its durability. Public utilities such as benches and small parks will be installed to enhance the road’s aesthetics at key junctions and near tech parks.

Footpaths will be constructed along the service roads, with saplings planted in the gaps between the carriageway and the service roads. Existing foot overbridges and Metro stations will be upgraded with additional pedestrian infrastructure where required. The drainage systems will also be redesigned to prevent the accumulation of silt.

The main carriageway will be white-topped, with areca palm trees planted along the median. Existing bus shelters will be upgraded, and some will be transformed into air-conditioned stops. To enhance commuter convenience, certain shelters will be relocated beneath flyovers, while additional public spaces under the flyovers will be leased to private companies for commercial purposes.