The Karnataka government’s ambitious transport revamp, featuring a ₹40,000 crore underground twin tunnel and a ₹500 crore Skydeck, has triggered alarm among urban planners, environmentalists, and residents. Detractors claim these projects favor private vehicles while offering only short-term traffic relief.

A fundamental issue plaguing Bengaluru’s mobility management is the scattered control among multiple agencies. Despite decentralization efforts, these bodies remain under state jurisdiction, weakening local decision-making and public representation. The absence of an elected city council for over four years has further diminished civic participation.

Public consultations on major projects are often superficial, held at short notice, and lack follow-through on citizen feedback. Regulatory loopholes allow crucial transport projects to bypass public scrutiny entirely. Experts argue that authorities prefer spectacle over sustainability, sidelining experienced urban planners in favor of bureaucratic control.

Additionally, real estate giants and political figures exert considerable influence over infrastructure blueprints. These power dynamics have derailed initiatives aimed at comprehensive urban mobility solutions. The controversial tunnel road plan, for instance, was allegedly shaped by property developers rather than transport specialists.

The city’s active citizenry continues to demand transparency, expertise-driven planning, and policies that prioritize sustainable, inclusive mobility. Without genuine engagement and accountable leadership, Bengaluru’s transport future remains on shaky ground.

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