The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), which has received substantial funding and assurances through the state government's budget, is preparing to present its 'Blueprint Budget' for implementing large-scale projects.
The BBMP is set to receive over ₹4,000 crores in funding from the state budget starting in the 2025-26 fiscal year. The budget will clarify how these funds will be utilized, particularly regarding the ₹19,000 crore assured for the tunnel road project and details on its implementation methodology. As a result, the BBMP budget is expected to exceed ₹18,000 crores.
Over the past year, various initiatives, including tunnel road construction and large-scale projects, have been announced by Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar. Additionally, a detailed project report for the "Bengaluru Comprehensive Traffic Management Plan," which proposes the construction of 16 flyovers/underpasses at an estimated cost of ₹54,000 crores, has also been completed.
The BBMP budget will outline the funding for 21 projects under the "Brand Bengaluru" concept as well as the urban infrastructure projects, specifying their titles and implementation areas, according to officials.
The tunnel road project, which is considered the city's largest endeavor with an estimated cost of around ₹40,000 crores, has raised numerous questions among the public, including confusion regarding the implementation processes. The budget is expected to address these concerns and provide a clear outline.
Box ----
While the detailed project report (DPR) for the tunnel road is ready, the tendering process for the north-south corridor has been delayed for the past four months. The tender process will commence after the budget announcement. The state budget has also clearly mentioned the establishment of a "Special Purpose Vehicle" (SPV) for the implementation and maintenance of large projects. Therefore, the BBMP budget will define which projects will be managed under the SPV and outline its operational procedures.
The BBMP budget is in its final stages of preparation, with only a meeting with public representatives remaining to gather their inputs. After this, the budget is expected to be finalized under the guidance of Bengaluru Development Minister and Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar.