MP questions BBMP’s ₹19,000 crore tunnel plan

Bengaluru Central MP P.C. Mohan has raised strong objections to the BBMP’s proposal to borrow ₹19,000 crore for a 40-km twin tunnel road aimed at easing city traffic. In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mohan outlined 13 alternative uses for the massive sum, arguing it could more effectively address the city’s pressing urban challenges.

According to Mohan, the same funds could be used to lay 10,000 kilometres of footpaths and cycling tracks, repair 80% of the city’s stormwater drains, and establish 1,000 start-up incubation centres. He further proposed setting up 1,000 primary health centres, upgrading 2,000 government schools, and covering nearly 70% of Namma Metro’s Phase 3A funding.

The MP also suggested a city-wide air quality monitoring network with over 500 sensors, 500 EV charging stations, revamping 500 public parks, and constructing 200 modern public toilets. Other proposals included installing one lakh CCTV cameras, deploying 10,000 electric buses, and building 2,000 anganwadis to support early childhood care and nutrition.

Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar recently announced that the state government is preparing to float tenders for the tunnel project. The plan includes a North-South corridor from Hebbal to Silk Board and an East-West corridor. The first phase is expected to begin soon, with efforts underway to identify entry and exit points to minimise disruption. Addressing concerns, Shivakumar noted that the road should avoid sensitive areas like Vidhana Soudha due to security and heritage concerns. He also announced funding for the Cauvery Aarti, planned as a major cultural event.