Twin push for Bengaluru's growth: Double-decker metro and hi-tech township

Bengaluru

In a significant move to address Bengaluru’s chronic infrastructure and traffic challenges, the Karnataka Cabinet on Thursday approved a major double-decker transport corridor, integrated hi-tech township and a series of new sewage treatment plants for the city.

The flagship project, an ambitious 37.121-kilometre double-decker system, will integrate metro lines with elevated roadways. As reported by The Indian Express, the project is estimated to cost Rs 9,700 crore and will be constructed in two sections: from JP Nagar Fourth Stage to Hebbal and from Hosahalli to Kadabagere.

Detailing the funding model, Law and Parliamentary Affairs Minister HK Patil stated in a news conference that the state government would contribute 50 per cent of the project cost, the local civic body would bear 10 per cent and the remaining 40 per cent would be raised through loans. This model aims to distribute the financial burden across multiple stakeholders.

In another development to boost urban housing, the Cabinet also decided to hand over developed bulk land to original property owners whose land was previously acquired by the Karnataka Housing Board at Chikkajala and Meenakunte in Yelahanka taluk. The land will be shared in a 50:50 ratio between the owners and the Board.

According to the minister, the Board will collaborate with private developers on its portion to create an integrated hi-tech township. This development, spanning 43 acres, is projected to cost Rs 2,930 crore.

Further prioritising the city’s infrastructure and environmental health, the Cabinet cleared Rs 956.67 crore for the construction of six new sewage treatment plants (STPs). The funding, as per The Indian Express report, covers both construction and a seven-year operation and maintenance period for the facilities.

The STPs will be located at Madiwala (Rs 244.32 crore), Kadubeesanahalli (Rs 191.65 crore), Kadugodi (Rs 104.7 crore), Koramangala (Rs 95.41 crore), Basavapura (Rs 59.36 crore) and Bellandur Amani Khane (Rs 261.23 crore).