Bengaluru commuters will soon benefit from a new toll-free 10-lane road connecting the southern and western parts of the city. This 10.8 km stretch, linking Challaghatta near the metro depot to Kadabagere Cross on Magadi Road, is expected to significantly reduce travel time from 1.5 hours to just 10 minutes. The road runs parallel to NICE Road for about 2 km, providing a free alternative for daily commuters.
Initially budgeted at ₹465 crore, the project’s cost was later revised to ₹585 crore but has now been estimated at ₹150 crore. The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is spearheading the project, which passes through several villages, including Kambipura, Krishna Sagar, Bhimanakuppe, Kommaghatta, Kenchanapura, and Sulikere.
Although land acquisition was a major hurdle, with 321.1 acres initially required, the main challenge now lies with the Forest Department, which has yet to approve the use of 2 acres of Sulikere Reserve Forest land. Additionally, work on the railway underpass is ongoing, with completion dependent on the Challaghatta Metro Depot’s progress.
Originally planned for completion in August 2019, construction began in 2018 following delays in tendering. The road will serve as a crucial arterial route, easing congestion and offering a faster alternative for commuters. Officials anticipate opening it to traffic within the next two months, marking a major infrastructure boost for Bengaluru.