Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya met deputy CM and Bengaluru Development Minister DK Shivakumar at his residence on October 28 and urged to scrap the tunnel road project, while calling for prioritising public transport infrastructure such as the Metro and suburban rail network.
“I had a detailed meeting with Shivakumar regarding ideas and proposals to decongest Bengaluru and provide sustainable transport solutions,” Surya told reporters after the meeting. “The amount proposed for the tunnel road should instead be spent on mass rapid transport systems. The focus must be on moving people, not vehicles.”
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Citing figures from the government’s detailed project report (DPR), Surya said the tunnel road would carry only about 1,800 vehicles per hour in one direction, while a Metro line can move up to 69,000 people at the same time. He also proposed better feeder connectivity along the Outer Ring Road, as well as appointment of a full-time chairman for the Bengaluru Metropolitan Land Transport Authority (BMLTA). Tejasvi Surya also suggested the state government to take up the footpath and road improvements on a ‘mission mode’.
Surya said the deputy CM had assured him there would be no damage to Lalbagh due to the tunnel project. The MP reiterated his opposition on financial and sustainability grounds. “An 18-km tunnel cannot solve Bengaluru’s traffic crisis. Long-term solutions lie in expanding metro and suburban rail,” he added.
Bring money from Centre: Shivakumar
Responding to Surya’s remarks, Shivakumar said he was open to examining the MP’s suggestions but added that the Centre must contribute funds for such public transport projects. “Surya has suggested adding more Metro lines. We are not against it, but the Central government should give the money. Let all four Bengaluru MPs come with me to Delhi, we can meet the Prime Minister and seek funds,” he said.
Also Read: Bengaluru suburban rail: After L&T’s exit, K-RIDE to invite fresh tenders for two corridors
On concerns over Lalbagh, Shivakumar clarified that only a small corner near the garden was proposed for the tunnel’s entry and exit and that six acres would not be affected. He added, “Everyone gives advice, but who brings the money? Tweets and suggestions are not enough - we need financial support from the Centre.”
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