Staggering Rs 330 Toll for Bengaluru’s New Hebbal to Silk Board Tunnel Road Sparks Controversy
The detailed project report for Bengaluru’s upcoming twin-tube tunnel road, spanning 16.6 km between Hebbal and Silk Board Junction, proposes a toll of Rs 330 for cars, as outlined by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. The toll for subsequent years will increase by 5% annually based on the wholesale price index, capped at 40%, with the base year set as FY 2030-31. However, the estimates are currently only applicable to cars, excluding other vehicle types.
This ambitious north-south corridor, led by Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D K Shivakumar, aims to significantly reduce travel time from 90 to 20 minutes through an underground tunnel featuring three intermediate ramps at Mekhri Circle, Racecourse, and Lalbagh for entry and exit. Specific tolls are projected for various routes: Rs 320 for Hebbal-Sarjapur, Rs 250 for Hebbal-Hosur Road, and Rs 180 for Hebbal-Seshadri Road, among other destinations.
Central to the project’s financial strategy is a 30% government grant via viability gap funding and a build-operate-transfer model granting a private entity a 30-year concession—comprising five years for construction and 25 years for operation and maintenance. The government will guarantee a loan of Rs 19,000 crore for this endeavor.
Despite these plans, the project has faced criticisms from residents and experts due to overlooked environmental concerns and mismatched data between feasibility assessments. Critics argue the tunnel contradicts sustainable transportation principles. Nevertheless, the government defends the project for its potential to decongest roads, reduce pollution, and conserve fuel.
As further developments unfold, the toll rates and decisions regarding vehicle inclusivity remain subjects for government deliberation. A BBMP official confirmed that these toll estimates are preliminary and subject to refinement as the project progresses.
Original Source: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/bangalore/toll-bengaluru-tunnel-road-hebbal-silk-board-junction-9780814/
Category : Bangalore,Cities
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Publish Date: 2025-01-15 20:33:00
