Foundation stone for Hebbal short tunnel to be laid today
Karnataka Chief Minister D K Shivakumar is set to lay the foundation stone for a new short tunnel at Hebbal in Bengaluru on June 28, 2026. The 2.18-kilometer six-lane tunnel is being constructed by the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) as part of efforts to decongest one of the city's most notorious traffic bottlenecks.
Project details and scope
The tunnel will be built at a cost of approximately ₹1,200 crore, according to BDA officials. It is designed to provide a seamless connection between the Hebbal flyover and the Outer Ring Road, significantly reducing travel time for commuters. The project is expected to be completed within 24 months, with the BDA aiming to expedite construction using advanced tunneling technology.
Expected impact on traffic
Hebbal is a major junction where several key roads converge, including the Bengaluru-Mysuru Infrastructure Corridor, the Outer Ring Road, and the airport road. The area currently experiences severe congestion, especially during peak hours. The new tunnel is expected to divert through traffic away from the existing flyover, thereby easing the load on the Hebbal signal and improving traffic flow for thousands of daily commuters.
According to the BDA, the tunnel will feature modern ventilation, lighting, and surveillance systems to ensure safety. It will also include emergency exits and fire-fighting equipment. The project is part of a broader infrastructure push by the state government, which has announced several road and flyover projects to address Bengaluru's traffic woes.
Political significance and public response
The foundation-laying ceremony is being seen as a key event for Chief Minister Shivakumar, who has made infrastructure development a priority. He has been actively involved in pushing for the tunnel project, which was initially proposed years ago but faced delays due to land acquisition and funding issues. The BDA has confirmed that all necessary approvals have been obtained, and construction will begin immediately after the foundation stone is laid.
Residents and commuters have welcomed the move, though some have expressed concerns about potential disruptions during construction. The BDA has assured that traffic management plans will be in place to minimize inconvenience. Local business owners hope the tunnel will boost economic activity by improving access to the area.
In his speech at the event, CM Shivakumar is expected to highlight the government's commitment to solving Bengaluru's infrastructure challenges and call for public cooperation during the construction phase.
