Bengaluru: In an unusual move, Bengaluru Smart Infrastructure Ltd (B-SMILE), a special purpose vehicle under the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP), is stepping into the role of a film producer. The civic agency has proposed a six-minute short film to showcase the city’s ambitious plans for tunnel roads and elevated corridors.
Film aims to project “futuristic” city vision
Officials believe the film, with an estimated budget of ₹85 lakh, will help restore public faith in the city’s infrastructure projects and communicate the government’s long-term vision.
According to B-SMILE, the film will highlight Bengaluru’s current urban challenges, such as traffic congestion and flooding, before transitioning into a futuristic portrayal of how the city could look once the projects are completed. It will be used on digital platforms, television, and official presentations to stakeholders and investors.
Mega projects worth ₹50,000 crore on the cards
The film is part of B-SMILE’s larger plan to promote twin tunnel corridors (East-West and North-South), a network of flyovers spanning nearly 120 km, and new roads along stormwater drain buffer zones. The estimated cost of these projects is expected to exceed ₹50,000 crore.
Officials say the glossy video will be used not only to inform the public but also to attract investment. “This film is designed to build awareness, inspire pride and communicate the government’s commitment to transforming Bengaluru into a resilient and modern metropolis,” said BS Prahallad, Director (Technical), B-SMILE.
Divided opinions among citizens
While officials are optimistic about the film’s impact, the proposal has also raised eyebrows. Critics argue that spending ₹85 lakh on a promotional film may not sit well with residents who continue to grapple with crumbling infrastructure, pothole-ridden roads, and frequent flooding during rains.
Several civic activists pointed out that instead of spending on public relations campaigns, the government should prioritise on-ground execution of long-pending road and drainage works.
Effort to counter negative sentiment
B-SMILE maintains that the short film is part of a broader strategy to counter public discontent surrounding Bengaluru’s infrastructure planning. With traffic bottlenecks worsening and citizens losing faith in civic promises, officials hope the film will help shift the narrative towards a vision of progress and modernisation.