Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar inspects the blueprint of the project on Thursday.
Credit: DY CM OFFICE
Bengaluru: The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has been granted approval to construct an underpass at Hebbal Junction, providing direct access along the Outer Ring Road (ORR) between K R Puram and Tumakuru Road.
Following a review of the ongoing elevated ramp project from KR Puram to the city centre, Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar instructed the BDA to prioritise the underpass work.
BDA Commissioner N Jayaram confirmed that construction would commence immediately, with completion expected in approximately one year.
During the inspection, Shivakumar emphasised the need for the BDA to consult with the traffic police before proceeding with the project. He also directed engineers to complete the elevated loop by the end of April. In addition, the Bengaluru Development Minister assured that the government would allocate the necessary funds for the project.
Ads on metro pillars
Advertisement boards are set to return on the metro pillars, with the BBMP taking responsibility for issuing tenders and sharing a portion of the revenue with Namma Metro.
Shivakumar stated that the revenue would be equally divided between the two departments, as the pillars belong to the metro, while the land is under the BBMP’s custody.
However, unlike Namma Metro, the BBMP has faced challenges in recovering revenue from advertisers.
In a press conference, the Bengaluru Development Minister also proposed the installation of ornamental lighting across the city as part of the Brand Bengaluru initiative, although further details are yet to be disclosed.
Metro fare hike
Regarding the proposed fare hike by Namma Metro, Shivakumar clarified that the government would not intervene, as the decision is based on a committee's recommendations led by a retired judge. “The BMRCL has made its decision. I will not interfere,” he stated.
Water tariff hike
On the topic of a water tariff hike, Shivakumar mentioned that the proposal would be presented to the cabinet. “A tariff hike has become necessary, as prices have not been adjusted in 14 years. The BWSSB is incurring a loss of Rs 1,000 crore annually,” he explained.
In response to growing opposition to tunnel road projects, Shivakumar dismissed the concerns, stating that criticism is a natural part of public life. “Good work endures, and criticism will fade,” he remarked.