The Bengaluru South City Corporation (BSCC) budget for 2026–27 has drawn concern from residents and experts after failing to provide clear allocations or timelines for several critical infrastructure projects in South Bengaluru.
Despite an overall outlay of ₹3,826 crore, the budget does not outline concrete plans for long-pending projects such as the Begur Road corridor, Outer Ring Road (ORR) junction improvements, and the delayed Ejipura Elevated Corridor.
Key mobility projects remain uncertain
The absence of firm financial commitments for these high-impact projects has raised questions about prioritisation, especially as traffic congestion continues to worsen across the region.
Instead, the budget focuses on selective road stretches like Bannerghatta Road, alongside lake rejuvenation efforts aimed at mitigating flooding during the monsoon.
Bannerghatta Road work faces funding gap
The 10-km stretch from Dairy Circle to NICE Road has been proposed for development this year. However, officials admit that only ₹12 crore has been allocated against an estimated requirement of ₹60 crore.
A senior engineer noted that the corridor remains in poor condition due to repeated utility works and lack of proper restoration. With limited funding, only basic asphalting may be carried out, raising concerns about durability.
The corporation is exploring additional funding options, including a proposal to secure ₹30 crore from the Greater Bengaluru Authority.
Civic concerns beyond traffic
Residents have also flagged persistent issues such as poor waste management, garbage blackspots, broken footpaths, and encroachments.
Citizen groups have emphasised the need for better last-mile connectivity and stronger on-ground enforcement, including more marshals in each ward to address civic violations effectively.
Select initiatives and future plans
While major mobility projects remain uncertain, the budget outlines several smaller initiatives. These include road widening works, lake rejuvenation with potential boating facilities, development of sponge parks to reduce flooding, and improved healthcare logistics through a hub-and-spoke model for diagnostics.
Other proposals include creating a memorial forest with medicinal plants and introducing a mobile crematorium for scientific disposal of animal carcasses.
Balancing priorities remains a challenge
BSCC Commissioner Ramesh K N stated that major infrastructure projects may be supported through central grants and are still under planning or feasibility evaluation.
However, for daily commuters, the lack of immediate and comprehensive solutions means continued challenges in navigating South Bengaluru’s congested roads.
The budget reflects a shift towards selective improvements rather than a holistic mobility strategy, leaving many residents awaiting long-term relief.
