Bengaluru government seeks alternative routes for Hebbal tunnel project

The Karnataka government is exploring alternative routes for a proposed tunnel road project in Bengaluru following intense public protests. The project, which aims to alleviate traffic congestion at the critical Hebbal Junction, has faced significant opposition from environmentalists and citizens concerned about the impact on local ecosystems and iconic landmarks.

One major point of contention is the potential use of land within the Lalbagh Botanical Garden. In response to mass protests and human chains formed by citizens, Greater Bengaluru Development Minister Krishna Byre Gowda stated that the government is examining new entry and exit points to ensure Lalbagh remains untouched. This follows controversy surrounding the Karnataka Government Parks (Preservation) Amendment Bill, 2026, which critics feared would allow infrastructure to encroach on parklands.

The proposed tunnel is a 2.2-kilometer, three-lane bidirectional road estimated to cost ₹1,385 crore ($165 million USD). The project intends to use the “cut-and-cover” method, excavating to a depth of approximately 18.5 meters. While intended to connect the Hebbal flyover to areas near the University of Agricultural Sciences, critics warn the project could threaten groundwater levels and existing lake systems.