Mysuru: The Public Works Department (PWD) National Highways sub-division in Mysuru has proposed the construction of a four-lane railway underbridge (RUB) at the railway level crossing near Kukkarahalli Lake junction. The project aims to improve connectivity and enhance road and railway safety in one of the city’s busy and sensitive heritage zones.

The proposed underpass will stretch over 588 metres and connect three important roads — Padma Road, Kukkarahalli Lake Road, and Crawford Hall Road — easing congestion and streamlining traffic flow in the area.

Project details and funding

The project will be implemented under the Central Road and Infrastructure Fund (CRIF) Setu Bandhan Scheme of the Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH). It is estimated to cost Rs 38.29 crore.

The initiative is part of broader efforts to modernise infrastructure while addressing long-standing traffic bottlenecks near Kukkarahalli Lake and the heritage precinct surrounding Crawford Hall.

Tree cutting proposal sparks concern

PWD officials have sought permission to cut around 35 trees along Kukkarahalli Lake Road, including Indian Beech and peepal trees, which have already been marked. However, the Forest Department is yet to grant approval.

K Paramesha, Deputy Conservator of Forests (Mysuru territorial division), confirmed that the proposal is still under consideration.

The move has raised environmental concerns, with activists stressing the importance of preserving the city’s green cover, particularly around ecologically sensitive areas like Kukkarahalli Lake.

MP suggests wider underpass, tree translocation

During a recent inspection, Yaduveer Krishnadatta Chamaraja Wadiyar reviewed the project site and suggested modifications to improve its functionality.

In a letter addressed to PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi on March 14, the MP proposed increasing the width of the underpass from the initially planned 5.5 metres to 7.5 metres. This change aims to match the width of approach roads and prevent traffic bottlenecks.

He also emphasised the need to protect the existing trees by proposing their translocation instead of felling. Additionally, he assured that compensatory plantation measures would be undertaken to balance development with environmental sustainability.

Long-pending project with multiple revisions

The underpass project has a long history dating back to 2001, when South Western Railway first proposed a railway overbridge at the location.

In 2021, the proposal was revised into an underbridge with cost-sharing between the railways and Mysuru City Corporation. Due to the heritage sensitivity of the area — between Crawford Hall, Kautilya Circle, and Padma Circle — the height was limited to 4.20 metres, allowing only small vehicles.

Later, the project was transferred to the National Highways department. The Union Ministry of Road Transport and Highways approved a four-lane RUB project in 2022-23, initially estimated at Rs 45 crore, with revised approvals at Rs 42.49 crore.

Tender and execution progress

The tender process has been completed, and the work order was awarded to Bengaluru-based PJB Engineers on March 20, 2025, for execution at a cost of Rs 38.29 crore.

PWD officials have submitted revised General Arrangement Drawings (GAD) and Temporary Arrangement Drawings (TAD) to the Railways, along with structural drawings to the Indian Institute of Technology for vetting. Final approvals are currently in progress.

Preparatory works and civic coordination

G Lakshmikanth Reddy recently chaired a coordination meeting involving multiple departments to facilitate preparatory works. These include shifting utilities such as electricity lines, water supply, and underground drainage systems.

Plans are also underway for the relocation of the tonga stand, Trin Trin cycle stand, the Kukkarahalli Lake main entrance, and the Sports Department pavilion gate. Additionally, the road leading to the university quarters may be temporarily closed during construction.

Environmentalists plan intervention

Environmental groups have also stepped in, voicing concern over the proposed tree cutting. Parashurame Gowda stated that activists, along with experts, will visit the site to assess the situation and take necessary steps to protect the trees.

The development has sparked a broader debate on balancing infrastructure growth with ecological preservation in Mysuru, known for its greenery and heritage landscape.

Conclusion

The proposed four-lane underpass at Kukkarahalli junction is expected to significantly improve traffic flow and safety in Mysuru. However, concerns over tree felling and environmental impact remain key issues.

As the project moves closer to final approvals, authorities face the challenge of ensuring that development is carried out responsibly, preserving the city’s ecological and cultural heritage while addressing its growing infrastructure needs.