Bengaluru : Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has announced a massive Rs 70,000 crore infrastructure package aimed at revamping Bengaluru’s urban landscape. The ambitious plans, revealed during his Budget speech on Friday, focus on improving roads, easing traffic congestion, and enhancing public health infrastructure.
Increased Funding for BBMP under the Budget
A key highlight of the Budget is the increased financial support for the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP). Chief Minister Siddaramaiah confirmed that the annual grant for BBMP would rise from Rs 3,000 crore to Rs 7,000 crore. This significant boost aims to address the city’s persistent infrastructure gaps. To ensure timely execution, a new special purpose vehicle (SPV) will be established.
“The yearly grant of Rs 3,000 crore provided to the BBMP will be enhanced to Rs 7,000 crore this year,” Siddaramaiah stated during his budget speech. “A Special Purpose Vehicle will be set up to prioritize major developmental works.”
Approval for Tunnel Road Projects in the Budget
Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar’s proposed tunnel road projects have also received government approval. These projects aim to improve traffic flow across the city. The North-South corridor will link Hebbal and Silkboard, while the East-West corridor will connect KR Puram and Nayandahalli.
The government has pledged Rs 19,000 crore in guarantees toward the Rs 40,000 crore required for construction in the budget. Despite concerns from civic and environmental groups, the administration is pressing forward with these initiatives. Critics argue that tunnel roads are “unscientific” and “unsustainable,” but officials remain committed to the plan.
Major Road and Flyover Projects included in the Budget 2025
Bengaluru’s notorious traffic congestion will be tackled through several large-scale infrastructure projects. Among the most ambitious is the development of a 40.5-km network of double-decker flyovers. This project, estimated to cost Rs 8,916 crore, aims to reduce bottlenecks and improve urban mobility has been provisioned in the budget.
Additionally, 300 km of new roads will be built along canal buffer zones at a cost of Rs 3,000 crore. Another Rs 660 crore will be allocated to upgrade 460 km of arterial and sub-arterial roads. Further enhancing the city’s road network, 120 km of new flyovers and grade separators are planned across Bengaluru.
No Relief on Metro Fare Hike
Despite calls from local legislators and Members of Parliament, the Budget did not address the recent metro fare hike. Many had urged the Chief Minister Siddaramaiah to reconsider the fare increase, but no such announcement was made. This omission has sparked disappointment among public transport users who were hoping for relief.
Advancing Namma Metro Phase-3
The Budget also earmarks significant funds for the expansion of the Namma Metro network. The Phase-3 extension will further improve connectivity and ease commuter pressure. With Bengaluru’s population growing rapidly, enhancing public transportation remains a top priority.
Comprehensive Health Programme Under “Brand Bengaluru”
In addition to transport infrastructure, the government is focusing on making Bengaluru a global hub for healthcare. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah introduced a Comprehensive Health Programme as part of the “Brand Bengaluru” initiative. This programme will roll out over the next three years at a cost of Rs 413 crore.
The plan aims to improve healthcare infrastructure and ensure better medical services for residents. With rapid urbanization, the government is prioritizing both physical and social infrastructure improvements.
A Bold Vision for Bengaluru’s Future
Karnataka’s latest Budget outlines an ambitious vision to transform Bengaluru into a modern metropolis. By increasing funding for the BBMP and pushing forward with large-scale infrastructure projects, the government aims to tackle longstanding urban challenges.
While the metro fare issue remains unresolved, the comprehensive investment in roads, flyovers, and healthcare marks a significant step toward improving the city’s quality of life. The coming years will reveal the impact of these bold initiatives on Bengaluru’s evolving urban landscape.
