Bengaluru's Tunnel-Road Project Faces Scathing Criticism from Prominent Citizens
In a sharp rebuke to the government's ambitious infrastructure plans, prominent citizens have labeled Bengaluru's proposed tunnel-road project as a 'white elephant that beats all white elephants'. The criticism, led by noted historian Ramachandra Guha, highlights deep concerns over the project's feasibility and the administration's capacity to execute it effectively.
Expert Consultation and Government Credibility Under Fire
Ramachandra Guha, a respected voice in public discourse, emphasized the critical need for domain expertise in complex infrastructure endeavors. 'When you design a complex infrastructure project, you must consult domain experts. The government lacks the necessary expertise and credibility to undertake such a massive exercise on its own', Guha stated, pointing to a perceived gap in technical know-how and trustworthiness within the governing bodies.
This sentiment echoes broader apprehensions among Bengaluru's civic society, who fear that without proper consultation and transparent planning, the tunnel-road initiative could become a costly misstep, draining public resources without delivering promised benefits.
Project Details and Public Backlash
The tunnel-road project, aimed at alleviating Bengaluru's notorious traffic congestion, has been touted as a transformative solution for the city's mobility challenges. However, critics argue that:
- The project's scale and complexity require specialized input from engineers, urban planners, and environmentalists, which they claim has been overlooked.
- There is a lack of clear, publicly accessible data on cost estimates, environmental impact assessments, and long-term maintenance plans.
- Past infrastructure failures in the city have eroded confidence in government-led initiatives, fueling skepticism about this new venture.
Prominent citizens, including academics, activists, and former bureaucrats, have joined Guha in voicing their dissent, urging a reevaluation of the project's approach. They stress that infrastructure development must prioritize sustainability, community engagement, and evidence-based decision-making to avoid becoming another 'white elephant'—a term often used for projects that are expensive but impractical or useless.
Broader Implications for Urban Development
This controversy sheds light on larger issues in urban governance and infrastructure planning across India. As cities like Bengaluru grapple with rapid growth and increasing demands on their transport networks, the debate underscores the importance of:
- Incorporating expert advice and public feedback into project designs.
- Ensuring transparency and accountability in government-led initiatives.
- Balancing ambitious development goals with practical, cost-effective solutions.
The criticism of the tunnel-road project serves as a cautionary tale, highlighting how a lack of consultation and credibility can undermine even well-intentioned efforts to improve urban infrastructure. As discussions continue, stakeholders are calling for a more collaborative and informed approach to safeguard public interest and avoid wasteful expenditures.
