Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday laid the foundation stone for Bengaluru’s first tunnel road project, marking a significant step towards addressing the city’s growing traffic congestion.

The six-lane, bi-directional tunnel will connect Hebbal Junction and Mekhri Circle, two of Bengaluru’s busiest traffic corridors, and is expected to substantially reduce travel time for commuters once completed.

Major infrastructure milestone

The 2.2-km tunnel road will be constructed at an estimated cost of ₹1,139 crore and forms part of the state government’s broader strategy to improve Bengaluru’s transport infrastructure.

Designed as a six-lane underground corridor, the project aims to decongest surface roads by providing uninterrupted movement for vehicles travelling between the northern parts of the city and the central business district.

Officials believe the tunnel will improve traffic flow, reduce bottlenecks and enhance connectivity for thousands of daily commuters.

Part of Bengaluru’s mobility vision

The tunnel road is one of several infrastructure initiatives being undertaken to modernise Bengaluru’s transport network alongside Metro expansion, flyovers and suburban rail projects.

Rapid urbanisation and increasing vehicle numbers have made traffic congestion one of the city’s biggest challenges, with key junctions such as Hebbal witnessing long delays during peak hours.

The new underground corridor is expected to complement other mobility projects and improve overall road efficiency.

Government aims to reduce congestion

Speaking during the foundation stone ceremony, Chief Minister Shivakumar said the project reflects the government’s commitment to developing world-class infrastructure and making travel faster and safer for Bengaluru residents.

Once operational, the tunnel is expected to significantly reduce travel time between Hebbal Junction and Mekhri Circle while easing pressure on one of the city’s busiest road networks.

Authorities said the project is expected to play a key role in improving urban mobility and supporting Bengaluru’s future growth as India’s leading technology and innovation hub