Tejasvi Surya Calls For Metro Expansion Over Tunnel Road In Talks With D K Shivakumar; Karnataka Deputy CM Seeks Central Funds

Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya met Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar on Tuesday (28 October) to discuss alternatives to the proposed tunnel road project, advocating for a stronger emphasis on public transport as the long-term solution to Bengaluru’s worsening traffic congestion.

Surya urged the state government to divert funds earmarked for the tunnel project towards expanding the city’s Metro and suburban rail networks, arguing that investment in mass transit would help move more people efficiently rather than facilitating private vehicle use.

Citing figures from the government’s Detailed Project Report, he pointed out that while a tunnel could accommodate around 1,800 vehicles per hour in each direction, a metro system could transport up to 69,000 passengers in the same time frame.

The MP also proposed the introduction of loop bus services along the Outer Ring Road to improve connectivity for office commuters and pressed for the immediate appointment of a chairperson for the Bengaluru Metropolitan Land Transport Authority (BMLTA).

He called for world-class footpaths and road infrastructure and urged the government to prioritise projects such as the expansion of the 300 km suburban rail network.

HE also recommended setting up a Special War Room to ensure timely completion of Metro projects.

During the meeting, Surya sought assurances regarding the protection of Lalbagh, expressing concern over possible damage from proposed construction.

He said the government had assured him that no harm would come to the historic garden and that any commercial development there would be halted.

Describing the discussion as constructive, Surya noted that further consultations with Outer Ring Road stakeholders and industry representatives would take place soon to find collaborative solutions for the city’s mobility challenges.

After meeting Surya, Shivakumar remarked that while suggestions are always welcome, major transport infrastructure projects require substantial financial backing.

He urged Surya and other BJP MPs from Karnataka to help secure central funding to support Bengaluru’s development needs, emphasising that progress cannot be achieved without adequate financial support.

Please click here to add Swarajya as your preferred and trusted news source on Google

Also Read: Fadnavis Flags Off 157 New Electric BEST Buses, Urges Focus On Non-Fare Revenue For Financial Stability