Amid resistance, work begins on Hebbal’s short tunnel

Against sustained criticism and questions over its necessity, work has begun on the State government’s ambitious short tunnel connecting Hebbal Junction and the Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University (KVAFSU).

The project has faced opposition from civic groups and urban planning activists, who have described it as an “unnecessary” and “expensive intervention” that is unlikely to address Bengaluru’s traffic problems in the long-run. The State government, however, has defended the project, citing consultations with a private traffic consultant and the Bengaluru Traffic Police (BTP).

Confirming the development to The Hindu, the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) officials said preliminary or “basic” works have commenced.

The 2.2-km, three-lane twin tunnel is estimated to cost over ₹1,130 crore and is expected to be completed within two years. The project will be executed using the cut-and-cover method, will not levy any toll, and will be fully funded by the BDA.

The BDA, in May, awarded the contract to Hyderabad-based Rithwik Projects Private Limited, which emerged as the lowest bidder with a quote of ₹1,139 crore.

Lake land

The development comes after the Karnataka Tank Conservation and Development Authority (KTCDA) approved the transfer of 13,944 sq m (3.45 acres) of land within the Hebbal Lake for the project. The land will be used for constructing a section of the proposed tunnel between the Hebbal Junction and the staff quarters of the University of Agricultural Sciences.

While granting approval, the authority accepted the project’s assessment that the tunnel would not reduce the lake’s water storage capacity. It noted that engineering measures would be adopted during construction to ensure there is no adverse impact on the lake’s storage or hydrology.