Karnataka Approves ₹17,780 Crore BOOT Model Tunnel Projects in Bengaluru: Hebbal–Silk Board & KR Pura–Mysuru Road Corridors to Be Tolled

In a significant move to enhance Bengaluru’s infrastructure, the Karnataka Cabinet has approved the construction of two major tunnel road corridors under the Build-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model. The projects aim to alleviate traffic congestion and improve connectivity in the city.

Project Details:

• Corridors: The first corridor will stretch from Esteem Mall near Hebbal to HSR Layout/Silk Board Junction, while the second will connect KR Pura to Mysuru Road.

• Estimated Cost: The combined cost for these projects is pegged at ₹17,780 crore.

• Implementation Model: Under the BOOT model, private entities will finance, build, operate, and maintain the infrastructure for a concession period of 30 years, after which the assets will be transferred back to the government.

• Toll Rates: The Detailed Project Report (DPR) estimates an initial toll of ₹330 for the 16.6 km Hebbal–Silk Board stretch. Toll rates are projected to increase annually by 5% based on the Wholesale Price Index, with a cap of 40%.

• Tendering Process: Global tenders for these projects are expected to be floated within the next 7 to 10 days.

Additional Insights:

The decision to adopt the BOOT model over other options like the Hybrid Annuity Model (HAM) or handing over to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) was made to leverage private investment and expertise. 

These tunnel corridors are anticipated to significantly reduce travel time and decongest surface roads, contributing to a more efficient urban transit system in Bengaluru.

Source: The Indian Express