Karnataka Government Plans Long-Term Infrastructure Development For Bengaluru With Rs 48,686 Crore Investment

During his Independence Day speech on Thursday (15 August), Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah stated that the 'Brand Bengaluru' initiative is aimed at transforming Bengaluru into a world-class city.

“It is intended to undertake long-term infrastructure development plans for the city through an innovative integrated financial model with an estimated budget of Rs 48,686 crore,” said Siddaramaiah.

“Our government is also committed to implementing the Peripheral Ring Road project to help reduce traffic congestion,” he added.

Bengaluru, often referred to as India's technology capital, has been under scrutiny for its infrastructure challenges, including traffic congestion and flooding.

During a meeting with Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 31 July, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar said that constructing two urban tunnels and two elevated corridors to ease Bengaluru's congestion would require Rs 36,950 crore.

“In this regard, 1,917 km of state highways, 2,502 km of district main roads, and 150 bridges will be constructed this year. Under State Highway Development Project Phase 5, the government has approved the development of 2,500 km of highways at an estimated cost of Rs 9,000 crore in two stages," Siddaramaiah said.

He added that the the tender process is underway for the development of 1,467 km of highways at an estimated cost of Rs 4,000 crore in the first stage of the project.

Regarding rural infrastructure, Siddaramaiah announced that 803.32 km of roads would be developed under various schemes, including PMGSY, Namma Grama Namma Raste, and the Special Development Programme, at a cost of Rs 463.11 crore.

Furthermore, the Pragati Path and Kalyana Path schemes will see the development of 8,260 km of roads, with a total investment of Rs 6,190 crore.

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