Sun Nov 02 12:20:21 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text and a rewritten news article:

Summary:

The Karnataka BJP, led by R. Ashoka, launched a strong protest against the proposed Tunnel Road project in Bengaluru, dubbed “Save Lalbagh, Protect Bengaluru.” Ashoka alleged the project is a “VIP lane,” a fundraiser for elections, and unscientific. He advocates for prioritizing Metro expansion instead, citing its superior capacity and traffic-reducing impact. He also criticized the project’s high cost, potential for debt, and expensive tolls, arguing it’s impractical for most commuters. Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya echoed concerns about the project’s lack of planning, impact assessments, and public consultation. In response, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar offered to form a committee led by Ashoka to review the project.

News Article:

Bengaluru Tunnel Road Faces Fierce Opposition as BJP Protests Project Near Lalbagh

Bengaluru, November 2, 2025 – A heated debate has erupted over the proposed Tunnel Road project in Bengaluru, with the Karnataka BJP staging a significant protest led by Leader of the Opposition R. Ashoka near the city’s historic Lalbagh botanical garden. The demonstration, held under the banner “Save Lalbagh, Protect Bengaluru,” saw hundreds gather to voice their concerns about the project’s impact on the city and its finances.

Ashoka branded the project as a politically motivated “VIP lane” and accused the government of prioritizing it over more sustainable solutions like expanding the Metro network. “Metro can ferry 60,000 people at once, compared to the tunnel’s capacity of 19,000 cars,” he stated. “We believe public transport is the real solution.”

The BJP leader further criticized the project’s exorbitant cost, estimated at ₹16,000 crore (including loan), and the anticipated high toll fees, projected at ₹600 per trip. He argued this would be unsustainable for the majority of Bengaluru’s middle-class commuters, rendering the tunnel exclusive to a select few. He also accused the government of seeking “commissions” through the project.

Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya echoed these concerns, emphasizing the lack of public consultation, environmental impact assessments, and crucial geological studies. He warned that the project’s Detailed Project Report (DPR) indicates the creation of “22 additional choke points” at tunnel entry and exit ramps.

In response to the growing opposition, Deputy Chief Minister Shivakumar offered to form a committee, headed by R. Ashoka himself, to review and suggest improvements to the project. “I am not a fool to destroy Lalbagh. I know its history,” Shivakumar stated, adding that comprehensive studies had been conducted.

The controversy surrounding the Tunnel Road project highlights the ongoing debate about the best approach to address Bengaluru’s notorious traffic congestion. The BJP’s strong stance signals a potential political battle over the city’s infrastructure development.

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