Overview The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has announced tenders for the construction of a short tunnel–rotary flyover project between Hebbal and Mehkri Circle in Bangalore. This project aims to alleviate traffic congestion in the area. The Karnataka cabinet had initially approved the project at an estimated cost of ₹2,215 crore . However, due to changes in the project's alignment, the estimated cost has been reduced to ₹1,655 crore , as stated in the tender documents. The BDA will finance the entire project from its own resources. Key Developments Project Components Tunnel: A 2.25 km tunnel will be constructed from Hebbal junction (below the flyover and railway line) to Karnataka Veterinary, Animal and Fisheries Sciences University (KVAFSU) . The estimated cost for the tunnel is ₹1,250 crore . Unlike metro projects, the tunnel will be built using the cut and cover method. Flyover: Vehicles exiting the tunnel will proceed onto a 1.7 km flyover leading to Mehkri Circle . The flyover is estimated to cost ₹405 crore . Rotary Flyover: At the Mehkri Circle junction, a rotary flyover will be constructed with up and down ramps towards Yeshwantpur and Jayamahal roads . Project Rationale The BDA previously added two new loops to the Hebbal flyover to reduce congestion. While this provided some relief, the traffic congestion shifted towards Mehkri Circle . The tunnel project was conceived to address this issue. However, concerns that the tunnel alone would simply move the congestion further towards Mehkri Circle led to the inclusion of the flyover in the project design. Project Timeline The BDA aims to complete the project within two years once work commences. To expedite the process, separate tenders have been issued for the tunnel and the flyover, allowing both to be constructed simultaneously. The BDA has not yet clarified how traffic will be managed during construction or which alternative routes will be provided for travelers heading to the airport. UPSC Relevance This project is relevant to the UPSC Civil Services Exam , particularly under GS Paper 3 (Infrastructure) and GS Paper 2 (Government Policies and Interventions) . It highlights the challenges of urban infrastructure development and traffic management in rapidly growing cities like Bangalore. The project also touches upon economic considerations, such as project financing and cost optimization, and environmental aspects related to construction methods. Potential Exam Questions Discuss the challenges and strategies for managing urban traffic congestion in Indian cities. Evaluate the role of infrastructure projects in promoting economic growth and improving quality of life in urban areas. Analyze the environmental impact of different construction methods used in infrastructure development projects. Important Facts Project Cost: ₹1,655 crore Tunnel Length: 2.25 km Flyover Length: 1.7 km Construction Method (Tunnel): Cut and cover Project Deadline: 2 years Implementing Agency: Bangalore Development Authority (BDA)