In a significant development for Bengaluru's commuters, the crucial Kamaraj Road stretch has been fully reopened to vehicular traffic, ending a prolonged six-year closure. The road, which connects MG Road to Cubbon Road, was inaugurated for two-way movement on Friday, marking a major milestone in the city's ongoing infrastructure upgrade linked to the Namma Metro expansion.
A Long-Awaited Relief for Commuters
The complete reopening brings to a close a chapter of detours and congestion for drivers navigating the city's central business district. The road had been shut down for the construction of the MG Road underground Metro station, a key part of the upcoming Pink Line. While one side of the road was partially opened in June 2024 to allow traffic from Cauvery Emporium towards Cubbon Road, the parallel carriageway—facilitating movement from Cubbon Road towards Brigade Road—was only thrown open now. This final step restores uninterrupted access in both directions.
Infrastructure Details and Environmental Impact
The newly reconstructed stretch spans 214 metres in length, with each carriageway boasting a minimum width of 11 metres. This modern design is built to handle high traffic volumes and improve safety. The construction, however, came at an environmental cost. Over 80 trees were removed from along Kamaraj Road to make way for the underground station works. Urban authorities have emphasised that compensatory plantation and landscaping plans are part of the project to restore the green cover along this arterial road.
Expected Benefits for Bengaluru's Traffic and Commerce
Traffic police and city planners anticipate a substantial improvement in vehicular flow. The reopening is expected to significantly ease congestion on MG Road and its surrounding areas. Enhanced connectivity between major commercial hubs like Commercial Street and Brigade Road is a key benefit. Businesses, shoppers, and transport operators are likely to experience smoother movement, reduced travel times, and fewer bottlenecks, especially during peak hours.
This project aligns with the long-term vision for Bengaluru's urban transport. The upgraded Kamaraj Road is not just about easing current traffic but also about integrating seamlessly with the expanding Metro network. It aims to improve last-mile connectivity to metro stations and support a larger shift towards sustainable public transit, ultimately contributing to decongesting the city's heart.
