The Karnataka government has revived the long-delayed Intermediate Ring Road (IRR) project, bringing renewed focus to one of the region’s key infrastructure plans aimed at easing future traffic pressure around Bengaluru.
The ambitious 210-km corridor, first proposed in 2007, is set to be implemented by the Bengaluru Metropolitan Regional Development Authority.
The project had remained stalled for years due to legal disputes, alignment challenges and resistance linked to land acquisition.
12 satellite towns to be connected
The revived plan has reportedly gained momentum under the direction of DK Shivakumar.
The proposed corridor will connect 12 satellite growth centres around Bengaluru, creating a mobility loop on the city’s outer edge.
Key towns expected to be linked include Thattekere, Harohalli, Bidadi, Tavarekere, Nelamangala, Devanahalli, Hoskote, Dommasandra and Anekal.
Legal hurdles delayed progress
Previous attempts to move the project forward faced multiple setbacks. Portions of the alignment were challenged in court, prompting the Karnataka High Court in August 2022 to order revisions.
A redesign in 2023 reportedly relied partly on existing Public Works Department roads, but inconsistent road widths — much lower than the originally planned 90 metres — led to fresh reconsideration.
Hope for future mobility
Urban planners believe the IRR could become a major growth driver by improving connectivity between emerging industrial, residential and logistics zones outside the city core.
If implemented efficiently, the project could reduce pressure on inner roads while shaping the next phase of Bengaluru’s expansion.