Japan to fund Peripheral Ring Road project only after land acquisition

A Japanese delegation has reiterated that it would fund the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) project only after the state government completes the land acquisition process.

The delegation headed by Japanese Ambassador Kenji Hiramatsu conveyed the decision to Bengaluru Development Minister K J George on Wednesday.

Sources said the delegation inquired about the delay in land acquisition even a year after the government mentioned about the financial assistance from the Centre.

George and officials from the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board and urban development department are said to have informed the delegation that the Centre is yet to provide financial assistance to acquire land.

According to the sources, the delegation was stunned at the protracted delay in executing the PRR project from Hosur Road to Tumakuru Road to complete the full ring and linking with the existing NICE Road.

In 2016, the state had promised a then visiting Japanese delegation that it would soon complete the land acquisition process as the Centre had promised to fund it. Following this, the delegation had assured a long-term loan to take up the project through Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The government needs Rs 9,000 crore to acquire 1,810 acres of land to construct the remaining 65-km of the PRR. The BDA estimated that the whole project will cost Rs 11,950 crore and so the JICA was approached for funds.

During the meeting, the government representatives and the Japanese delegates also discussed the details of the elevated north-south corridor. The government is keen on obtaining the JICA funds for this project also.

The electric vehicle policy was also discussed. The delegation showed an interest in the policy and in the energy storage mechanisms, the sources added.

It was also interested in the intelligent transport systems and the Cauvery stage 5 project

The government assured the delegates that it will obtain all clearances from the ministry by January after which exchange notes will be signed.