The Karnataka government is gearing up to make significant transportation improvements in Bengaluru, as Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D K Shivakumar recently announced plans to float tenders for proposed tunnel roads by December 15.
Source: TimesProperty
These developments came after the government opened the project for international bidding, with discussions ongoing to determine whether these roads will have four or six lanes. With eight out of nine participating agencies qualifying for the project’s concept plan, Bengaluru is poised for crucial infrastructure enhancements.
The ambitious tunnel road project in Bengaluru has garnered significant attention and interest after the government opened it for international bidding. Initially, when the Expression of Interest was first floated, only two engineering and mobility agencies submitted proposals. However, following the international bidding process, a remarkable turnaround has occurred, with a total of eight agencies now qualified to participate in the project’s planning phase. This newfound interest underscores the project’s potential and its importance for the city’s infrastructure development.
Source: Indian Express
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar expressed confidence in the project’s progress, stating, “By the end of this month, I will finalize the consultation. By December 15, a feasibility report will be prepared.” This announcement suggests that the government is taking significant steps to ensure that the tunnel road project moves forward swiftly. A feasibility report is a crucial component in assessing the practicality and viability of such a large-scale infrastructure endeavor.
One of the notable challenges faced in executing this tunnel road project is the availability of Tunnel Boring Machines . Currently, the state lacks the necessary TBMs for such an ambitious undertaking. These specialized machines are essential for excavating tunnels efficiently and safely. While TBMs are deployed in cities like Mumbai and parts of North India, Bengaluru will require larger and more powerful TBMs due to the project’s scale, which includes the construction of a minimum of four lanes. Addressing this equipment shortage will be a crucial aspect of ensuring the project’s success.
Source: Deccan Chronical
The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) and the Bangalore Development Authority played pivotal roles in kick starting this project. They called for Expression of Interest in July this year, paving the way for the government to explore international bidding options. The decision to opt for a global tender reflects the significance of the project for Bengaluru, a city known for its traffic congestion and growing urban population.
