A prominent citizens' group in Bengaluru has launched a strong appeal to the Karnataka government, demanding immediate suspension of the proposed tunnel road project that aims to alleviate the city's notorious traffic congestion. The Citizens for Bengaluru (CfB) organization has raised multiple concerns about the project's potential environmental impact and feasibility.
Growing Opposition to Infrastructure Plan
The citizen-led movement has formally requested both Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar to halt the controversial tunnel road initiative until comprehensive studies address the numerous red flags being raised by urban planning experts and environmentalists. The group argues that the project could create more problems than it solves for India's technology capital.
In their detailed representation to the state government, CfB members highlighted that Bengaluru simply cannot afford another infrastructure project that might worsen the city's already fragile ecosystem. The organization has been at the forefront of several citizen-led initiatives aimed at preserving Bengaluru's environment and improving urban governance.
Environmental and Practical Concerns
The proposed tunnel road, intended to connect Hebbal to the Central Business District, faces criticism on multiple fronts. Environmental activists point to the potential disruption of Bengaluru's delicate groundwater systems and the risk of increased flooding in areas already vulnerable to waterlogging during monsoon seasons.
Urban planning experts associated with the protest movement argue that tunnel projects in flood-prone Bengaluru could become death traps during heavy rainfall. They cite the city's history of urban flooding and question the wisdom of building extensive underground transportation networks without addressing fundamental drainage issues first.
Another major concern revolves around the massive financial investment required for the tunnel road project. Citizens for Bengaluru suggests that the estimated ₹15,000-20,000 crore could be better utilized for developing comprehensive public transportation solutions that would benefit a larger segment of the population.
Alternative Solutions Proposed
Rather than pursuing what they describe as an "expensive band-aid solution," the citizens' group has proposed several alternative approaches to address Bengaluru's traffic woes. They advocate for significant improvements to the existing public transportation network, including expansion of metro services and creation of dedicated bus lanes.
The organization also emphasizes the need for better traffic management systems and pedestrian-friendly infrastructure that would make the city more livable for all residents, not just vehicle owners. They argue that sustainable mobility solutions should prioritize public transit, cycling, and walking over private vehicle infrastructure.
Citizens for Bengaluru has urged the state government to conduct transparent public consultations before moving forward with any major infrastructure projects. They stress that the people who live and work in the city should have a meaningful say in decisions that will shape Bengaluru's future for generations to come.
The growing opposition to the tunnel road project represents a broader movement among Bengaluru residents who are increasingly vocal about protecting their city's environment while seeking practical solutions to urban challenges. As the debate intensifies, all eyes are on the Karnataka government's next move regarding this controversial infrastructure proposal.
