Fri Nov 14 02:53:22 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a rewrite as a news article:

Summary:

Bengaluru is pushing forward with a massive twin-tunnel road project aimed at easing traffic congestion, despite concerns from experts and activists. The project is being fast-tracked, seemingly ahead of comprehensive mobility planning, and critics argue it prioritizes cars over public transportation and pedestrian needs. Questions are raised about its affordability, environmental impact, and whether it truly addresses the city’s broader transportation issues. Doubts persist if it will alleviate traffic in areas beyond the immediate tunnel route, potentially undermining public transport initiatives such as the Namma Metro. Instead, critics are suggesting that public transportation should be supported instead.
Environmental factors, groundwater and debris are another concern. Moreover, the project has legal issues as it has not been approved by some governing bodies.

News Article:

Bengaluru’s Controversial Tunnel Project: Is it a Solution or a Road to Nowhere?

Bengaluru, November 14, 2025 – A massive twin-tunnel road project in Bengaluru, aimed at tackling the city’s notorious traffic gridlock, is facing mounting criticism despite its rapid progress. The project, encompassing 40km of tunnels connecting the city north-south and east-west, promises to save time and reduce congestion, but experts and activists are questioning its effectiveness and long-term impact.

Critics argue that the tunnel project is being prioritized ahead of the city’s Comprehensive Mobility Plan (CMP) and Revised Master Plan – 2041, raising concerns that it prioritizes private vehicle use over public transport, walking, and cycling. Dattatraya T. Devare, an environmental activist, points out the proposed tunnel addresses only a small portion of the city’s vast road network, questioning its ability to significantly alleviate congestion in areas like Jayanagar, Outer Ring Road (ORR), or Whitefield.

Professor Ashish Verma from the IISc Sustainable Transportation Lab highlights the cost-effectiveness of public transit, stating that the same tunnel space could transport nearly 40 times more passengers per hour if used for a metro system. The project also faces affordability concerns, with projected tolls of ₹325 for a one-way trip from Hebbal to Silk Board.

The tunnel project is also facing legal challenges, with Public Interest Litigations (PILs) filed before the High Court of Karnataka as well as the National Green Tribunal (NGT). MP Tejasvi Surya has filed one, to augment public transportation with rail and trams.

Adding to the controversy, the proposed tunnel overlaps significantly with the planned Namma Metro Phase 3A, raising questions about the viability of both projects. Critics warn that the tunnel could undermine public transport and push more people towards private vehicles. Dattatraya T. Devare cautioned the environmental concerns, like disturbing the city’s groundwater.

While Deputy Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar champions the tunnel as the ultimate solution to Bengaluru’s traffic woes, critics argue that a more holistic approach focusing on public transport, pedestrian safety, and travel demand management is needed. The debate underscores a fundamental question: Will the tunnel truly solve Bengaluru’s traffic problems, or will it pave the way for more congestion and inequitable mobility?

B‑SMILE Director, B.S. Prahlad is confident that the toll charge is fixed in line with guidelines, and the tunnel has been scientifically designed to meet safety standards.

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