Karnataka CM launches ₹1,130-crore Hebbal tunnel project amid cost concerns

Karnataka Chief Minister D.K. Shivakumar on Sunday performed the groundbreaking ceremony for a three-lane, short transitory twin tunnel from Hebbal Junction to the Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries University (KVAFSU). The 2.2-km tunnel, estimated to cost over ₹1,130 crore, is expected to be completed within two years.

The project has drawn criticism from civic groups and activists, who view it as unnecessary expenditure. The government, however, defended the project after consulting a private agency and the Bengaluru Traffic Police, both of whom supported the proposal for decongesting areas around Hebbal.

The tunnel will be built using the cut-and-cover method. Initially, B-SMILE, a Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV), was entrusted with implementation, but the task was later transferred to the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA). The project aims to reduce congestion on interior roads leading to Hebbal and ease traffic at junctions beneath the Hebbal Flyover, benefiting localities such as Ganganagar, Sanjay Nagar, and R.T. Nagar.

In addition to the tunnel, an elevated corridor from the UAS Staff Quarters to Mehkri Circle will also be constructed, with work expected to begin soon. The concessionaire has completed soil testing and will commence work within a month.

The Karnataka Cabinet granted administrative approval in December 2025. Tenders were invited twice, as no contractor showed interest initially. The Finance Department had questioned the high expenditure, suggesting a surface road costing nearly one-tenth of the tunnel and faster to build. However, the BDA argued that road widening is not feasible due to high land acquisition costs and challenges.

The ceremony was attended by Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda, Transport Minister Byrathi Suresh, BDA Chairperson N.A. Haris, and other officials.