Bengaluru Business Corridor's First Phase on Track for Mid-2027 Completion
Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D K Shivakumar has announced that the initial phase of the ambitious Rs 26,000 crore Bengaluru Business Corridor project is slated for completion by mid-2027. This 117-kilometer infrastructure initiative, previously known as the Peripheral Ring Road project, has been revived by the Congress government in Karnataka to address the city's persistent traffic woes on its outskirts.
Project Implementation and Funding Details
Speaking after a recent review meeting with Bengaluru Development Authority (BDA) officials, Shivakumar revealed that the project is progressing without a direct budgetary allocation. Instead, it is being financed through a loan from the Housing and Urban Development Corporation (Hudco). A special purpose vehicle, Bengaluru Business Corridor Limited, has been established to oversee the implementation.
Land Acquisition and Compensation Efforts
Shivakumar highlighted that significant strides have been made in land acquisition, with 650 landowners consenting to provide their land for the corridor. Compensation has been disbursed to 400 of these landowners, utilizing mechanisms such as cheques, certificates, and Transferable Development Rights (TDRs) under the Right to Fair Compensation and Transparency in Land Acquisition, Rehabilitation and Resettlement Act, 2013.
Route Connectivity and Traffic Relief
Upon completion, the Bengaluru Business Corridor will enhance connectivity by linking NICE Road with Tumkur Road and Hosur Road through key routes including Hesaraghatta Road, Doddaballapur Road, Ballari Road, Hennur-Bagalur Road, Old Madras Road, Hoskote-Anekal Road, and Sarjapur Road. Shivakumar emphasized that this corridor is expected to substantially alleviate traffic congestion in the city and benefit businesses along the Outer Ring Road (ORR).
Challenges and Government Commitment
Despite facing opposition from conservationists and some landowners, as well as demands to denotify land acquired over 15 years ago, the Congress government has pushed forward with the project. Of the total project cost, 75% will be raised through loans, underscoring the government's commitment to this critical infrastructure development aimed at boosting Bengaluru's urban mobility and economic growth.
