DH Bengaluru 2040 Summit | City's tunnel project to revolutionise urban mobility: CM Siddaramaiah

Bengaluru: Chief Minister Siddaramaiah said Friday that tunnel roads would “revolutionise” mobility in Bengaluru, underpinning the controversial project, while he also recognised the need to conserve and protect the city’s natural resources.

Addressing the DH Bengaluru 2040 summit, Siddaramaiah said his administration is “proactively addressing key challenges” that Bengaluru faces.

“The introduction of underground tunnels, all-weather roads and the iconic 250-metre sky deck will revolutionise urban mobility and landscape,” Siddaramaiah said.

The CM was referring to his government’s plan to create a 40-km-long underground urban tunnel, which is being positioned as India’s largest such infrastructure. The project is expected to cost Rs 40,000 crore and the government is eyeing funds from the private sector for this. Siddaramaiah's deputy D K Shivakumar is bullish about the tunnel project.

“With Bengaluru Metro phases 1 and 2 operational and further expansions underway, along with the suburban rail project -- 148 km and 57 stations -- we're enhancing connectivity and easing urban commute,” Siddaramaiah said.

Mindful of concerns being expressed by citizens over some of his government’s projects, Siddaramaiah said: “Conservation will remain at the heart of our urban development policies.”

Siddaramaiah said his government is committed to protecting natural assets. “Our lakes, parks and tree-lined avenues define Bengaluru's character as much as its technological achievements,” he said.

The Cauvery water supply scheme, establishment of new sewage treatment plans and the revival of the Arkavathy river would improve water accessibility for every household, Siddaramaiah said. “The implementation of smart water metres and biogas plants will help in efficient resource utilisation while promoting clean energy,” he added.

Under the ‘Brand Bengaluru’ initiative, Siddaramaiah said “progressive urban planning” would be integrated with “responsible governance”.

Bengaluru will be divided into four zones for “systematic and effective disposal” of waste, Siddaramaiah said. “The digitisation of property tax records will bolster transparency and accountability,” he said.

Siddaramaiah said Bengaluru’s second international airport is expected to commence operations by 2033. The location of the new airport is being picked to ensure “optimal connectivity and environmental responsibility,” he said.

Near the existing Kempegowda International Airport, the government is developing a Bengaluru Signature Business Park on 407 acres. This will be “a global hub for innovation and sustainability,” Siddaramaiah said.

Bengaluru represents "innovation and progress while remaining deeply rooted in its cultural heritage," Siddaramaiah said.

"The strength of Bengaluru lies in its people, the dreamers, the doers and the changemakers," Siddaramaiah said. "Our collective responsibility is to ensure the city's progress benefits everyone - from small business owners to corporate leaders."

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