Karnataka to launch Rs 48,686 crore long-term infrastructure plan for Bengaluru

The CM said that good infrastructure and transportation connectivity are accelerators for economic growth.

Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, during his Independence Day speech on Thursday, stated that the 'Brand Bengaluru' concept is being implemented to transform Bengaluru into a world-class city.

“It is intended to undertake long-term infrastructure development plans for the city through an innovative integrated financial model with an estimated budget of Rs 48,686 crore,” said Siddaramaiah.

Also, read: Global tender floated for Bengaluru's 74-km Peripheral Ring Road project

“Our government is also committed to implementing the Peripheral Ring Road project to help reduce traffic congestion,” he added.

Bengaluru, known as the country's technology capital, has been facing criticism due to inadequate infrastructure, traffic issues, and flooding. It may be recalled that Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar during a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on July 31 stated that two urban tunnels and two elevated corridors to decongest Bengaluru will cost Rs 36,950 crore.

Also, read: Rs 36,950 cr for tunnel roads, elevated corridors in Bengaluru: DK Shivakumar meets PM Modi and seeks funds

Karnataka IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge recently said that the government will soon unveil a blueprint for tech and industrial corridors in Bengaluru to address infrastructure gaps. Speaking at the Moneycontrol Startup Conclave, Kharge said, "We will soon come up with a decadal blueprint for the tech and industrial corridors. These corridors, which contribute significantly through high tax revenues, job creation, and economic growth, are essential not just for Karnataka but for the nation as a whole."

Also, read: Karnataka to unveil decadal infrastructure blueprint for Bengaluru tech corridors: Priyank Kharge

The CM said that good infrastructure and transportation connectivity are accelerators for economic growth. “In this regard, 1,917 km of state highways, 2,502 km of district main roads, and 150 bridges will be constructed this year. Under State Highway Development Project Phase 5, the government has approved the development of 2,500 km of highways at an estimated cost of Rs 9,000 crore in two stages. The tender process is underway for the development of 1,467 km of highways at an estimated cost of Rs 4,000 crore in the first stage of the project,” he said.

“For the development of rural roads, a total of 803.32 km of roads will be developed at Rs 463.11 crore under PMGSY, Namma Grama Namma Raste, and the Special Development Programme. Additionally, steps have been taken to develop a total of 8,260 km of roads for Rs 6,190 crore under the Pragati Path and Kalyana Path schemes,” Siddaramaiah added.

Also, read: Brand Bengaluru: 70,000 suggestions from citizens; ball in Karnataka govt's court

The CM said that the government has launched multidimensional programmes in areas such as industry, agriculture, infrastructure development, and education to accelerate economic growth, in addition to implementing welfare programmes.