Bengaluru: Around 500 citizens formed human chains at three locations on October 11, opposing the proposed elevated corridor projects planned by Bengaluru Smart Infrastructure Limited (B-SMILE) and demanding that the government scrap the plans. The protests were held on Indiranagar’s 80 Feet Road and 100 Feet Road, as well as at Rose Garden in Jayanagar. Participants called for better public transport, alternative mobility solutions and a review of the city’s infrastructure priorities.
The protesters put forward three major demands: scrapping the proposed elevated corridor projects and cancelling the tenders, redirecting the allocated funds towards mobility projects recommended by the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), and dissolving B-SMILE while reinstating the Bengaluru Metropolitan Land Transport Authority (BMLTA).
The demonstration reflects growing concerns among residents about the city’s approach to managing traffic congestion. Participants argued that building more elevated roads may not provide a sustainable, long-term solution to Bengaluru’s transport challenges.
They also questioned whether the projects adequately considered the impact on neighbourhoods, local businesses, road users and the environment.
Residents Raise Concerns Over Traffic and Pollution
Residents opposing the corridors warned that construction could disrupt recently white-topped roads, increase dust levels and worsen air pollution. They also expressed concern about rising temperatures and the loss of green cover in residential areas.
Protesters drew comparisons with the Ejipura Flyover, which has remained incomplete for more than nine years, arguing that the proposed projects could create further disruption without delivering the expected improvements in traffic flow.
Vishal R, a business owner in Indiranagar, said flyover construction had affected standalone businesses and altered the character of neighbourhoods. He also highlighted the environmental consequences of losing trees and called for better public transport and underpasses in areas on the city’s outskirts where large residential complexes have developed.
The concerns extend beyond the construction phase. Residents fear that elevated corridors could affect the character of established neighbourhoods, disrupt commercial activity and reduce the availability of green spaces.
The protesters argued that infrastructure planning should account for these local impacts alongside the objective of reducing travel time for motorists.
Demand for Better Public Transport
A central demand of the campaign is that Bengaluru prioritise public transport and other mobility improvements instead of relying heavily on elevated roads.
Citizens called for funds to be redirected towards projects recommended by IISc, which they believe could offer alternatives to the proposed corridors. They also stressed the need to strengthen the existing transport network and improve connectivity for commuters.
Improved public transport, better access to Metro services and suitable infrastructure for pedestrians and other road users are among the broader issues raised in the debate over Bengaluru’s mobility planning.
The protesters maintain that reducing dependence on private vehicles is essential to addressing congestion over the long term. They argue that additional road capacity alone may not resolve traffic problems if the number of private vehicles continues to rise and public transport remains inadequate.
Their demands also raise questions about how infrastructure projects are evaluated, particularly whether environmental costs, neighbourhood disruption and public transport alternatives receive sufficient consideration before decisions are made.
Dispute Over B-SMILE and Transport Governance
The citizens have also called for the dissolution of B-SMILE and the reinstatement of BMLTA, reflecting their concerns about how major transport projects are planned and implemented.
They want the authorities to reconsider the institutional framework responsible for coordinating Bengaluru’s infrastructure and mobility projects. Their demand is part of a broader call for greater attention to public concerns when decisions affect residential areas, businesses and the city’s environment.
The protest places the proposed elevated corridors at the centre of a wider discussion about Bengaluru’s development priorities. While easing congestion remains an important objective, residents are asking whether the proposed approach will deliver lasting benefits or create additional challenges.
Elevated Corridor Debate Continues in Bengaluru
The October 11 demonstrations at Indiranagar and Jayanagar show that opposition to the proposed elevated corridors extends across different parts of the city.
The protesters are seeking a change in direction, with greater investment in public transport and mobility measures that address the causes of congestion rather than focusing primarily on road capacity.
Their demands include cancelling the projects, reallocating funds to alternative mobility initiatives and reviewing the institutions responsible for transport planning. The demands represent the position of the protesting citizens; the report does not establish that all their proposals have been accepted by the government.
The debate highlights the challenge facing Bengaluru as it attempts to balance traffic management, infrastructure development, environmental protection and the interests of local communities. Residents are urging the authorities to consider these factors before proceeding with the proposed elevated corridor plans.