Activist files petition against Rs 16,500-crore tunnel, Rs 500-crore sky-deck projects

Bengaluru: Kathyayini Chamaraj, executive trustee of Civic Bangalore, a citizens’ collective, has filed an online petition opposing the state’s Rs 16,500-crore tunnel road project and the Rs 500-crore sky-deck initiative.

In her petition, she argues that the government is prioritising luxury projects for a select few while ignoring the basic needs and fundamental rights of citizens, particularly when the funds are short.

Kathyayini, a veteran activist, pointed out that these projects were approved by the state cabinet without adhering to the proper institutional planning process, notably the clearance from the Bangalore Metropolitan Land Transport Authority (BMLTA). She criticised the tunnel road project, which she believes would only benefit 2.8 per cent of the population, questioning the justification for such a massive expenditure.

She also raised concerns about the potential geological impacts and the ongoing water crisis, urging the government to reconsider its priorities. Instead, she suggested that the funds be redirected towards improving health and education infrastructure, particularly by doubling the current budget. She also called for the development of tier 2 and tier 3 cities, disincentivising private car usage and increasing public transport usage to 75% by making it faster, more frequent, and reliable.

Kathyayini appealed to Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to drop both projects in favour of initiatives that would benefit the broader population.