Transforming Bengaluru: Key Advances in Peripheral Ring Road Projects

The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is poised to finalize the long-awaited Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) project with the issuance of the final land acquisition notification. This significant step follows the preliminary notification released in April 2020, which sought to acquire approximately 750 acres of land surrounding Bengaluru. The PRR is designed to facilitate better traffic management and connectivity, aiming to enhance transportation across the city.

Project Overview and Objectives

The Peripheral Ring Road is planned to encircle Bengaluru and is projected to tackle the city’s chronic traffic congestion by improving connectivity among various districts. With a route encompassing 10 major junctions and over 100 minor intersections, the project includes the addition of 16 flyovers at critical points such as Hesarghatta Road, Old Madras Road, and Whitefield Road. The PRR aims to ensure a smoother traffic flow and enhanced access to prominent areas within and outside the city limits.

Land Acquisition Process

The BDA has been actively engaging with the public to maintain transparency regarding the acquisition process. In its latest move, it issued a public notice inviting objections to the acquisition of 78 acres of land across several key locations including Yelahanka, KR Puram, and Varthur. This notification specifically affects 367 property owners who will relinquish their land to facilitate this infrastructural improvement. The acquisition of these 78 acres contributes to the broader strategy of completing the PRR project following the BDA’s earlier notification to acquire a total of 750 acres.

Compensation Discussions

While progress has been made in securing land for the project, the issue of compensation for affected landowners remains a contentious topic. The BDA’s original proposal suggested compensation under the BDA Act, but many landowners have advocated for compensation based on the 2013 Land Acquisition Act, which offers significantly higher financial restitution—up to three times the market rate. The estimated cost of the PRR has escalated from an initial figure of Rs 14,000 crore to Rs 27,000 crore, primarily due to increased demands for compensation aligned with this legislation.

Financial Aspects and Project Budget

The revised project budget now allocates Rs 21,000 crore specifically for land acquisition. This substantial financial commitment has necessitated a re-evaluation of funding strategies, leading the Karnataka Cabinet to approve proposals for raising loans to support the PRR and the Bengaluru Business Corridor Project. The state government is currently reviewing three possible compensation frameworks outlined by the BDA, with a final decision anticipated soon.

Infrastructure Features

The Peripheral Ring Road will feature a meticulously designed transportation network, including 16 flyovers, 10 overpasses, and 12 underpasses aimed at minimizing traffic disruptions. The project also includes plans for bridges over seven water bodies, such as Chikkatogur Lake and Gunjur Lake, further enhancing the connectivity of the route. Innovative designs presented by the BDA illustrate a 100-meter-wide expressway that incorporates green spaces, utility services, footpaths, and segregated cycle tracks, all crucial for modern urban infrastructure.

Technical Specifications

The newly designed expressway will boast an eight-lane main carriageway complemented by service roads, ensuring efficient traffic management. A broad median has been reserved for potential future metro integration, making the PRR a more versatile transport solution. Stretching approximately 65.95 kilometers between Hosur Road and Tumakuru Road, the project also features links to existing infrastructure, facilitating seamless transitions for commuters.

Community Engagement and Future Developments

The BDA’s approach to community engagement has been proactive, with multiple public notices issued to gather input from stakeholders. This ensures that the needs and concerns of those impacted by the project are considered. As the acquisition process advances, the BDA is committed to addressing any objections and concerns raised by the public in a timely manner.

Conclusion of Key Actions

The BDA continues to navigate the complex landscape of land acquisition, compensation negotiations, and infrastructural design to realize the ambitious Peripheral Ring Road project. As Bengaluru’s population continues to grow and traffic congestion worsens, the timely completion of the PRR is expected to be a critical factor in sustaining the city’s development and improving the quality of life for its residents.

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