The proposed tunnel road project for Bengaluru has become the latest battleground in Karnataka's political arena, with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar and BJP MP Tejasvi Surya engaging in a war of words over the ambitious infrastructure initiative.
Shivakumar's Stern Warning
Deputy CM DK Shivakumar issued a strong warning to BJP leaders, particularly targeting Tejasvi Surya, stating that the government wouldn't tolerate "blackmailing tactics" over the tunnel road project. The Congress leader emphasized that the project would proceed only after thorough technical scrutiny and proper procedures.
"Some BJP leaders, especially Tejasvi Surya, are trying to create pressure through blackmail. Let me make it clear - this government doesn't function under pressure or blackmail," Shivakumar declared during a media interaction.
Technical Feasibility First
The Karnataka government has clarified that the tunnel road project, aimed at solving Bengaluru's notorious traffic congestion, will be implemented only after comprehensive technical studies confirm its viability. Several international companies have submitted detailed project reports, which are currently under examination by technical experts.
Shivakumar highlighted that the project's implementation would follow established protocols: "First study, then decision, then implementation - this is our process."
BJP's Counter-Accusations
Tejasvi Surya, the BJP MP from Bengaluru South, has been vocally critical of the state government's approach to the tunnel road project. The BJP leader accused the Congress administration of delaying the much-needed infrastructure development and playing politics with Bengaluru's future.
The political confrontation escalated when Shivakumar questioned the BJP's sudden interest in the project, pointing out that the party had done little to address Bengaluru's infrastructure issues during their tenure in the state government.
What's at Stake for Bengaluru?
The proposed tunnel road project represents one of the most ambitious infrastructure initiatives planned for India's tech capital. With Bengaluru consistently ranking among cities with worst traffic congestion in the country, the project aims to:
- Create underground passages to ease surface traffic
- Reduce travel time across key corridors
- Provide sustainable mobility solutions
- Enhance connectivity between major IT hubs and residential areas
As the political drama unfolds, Bengaluru citizens await concrete developments on a project that could potentially transform their daily commute and address the city's perennial traffic woes.
