Bengaluru Airport Plans Rs 16,500 Crore Eastern Tunnel to Ease Traffic

The construction of the Eastern Connectivity Tunnel is set to begin this year, marking a significant step in Bengaluru's infrastructure development. This project will offer a direct, faster route to Kempegowda International Airport (KIA) for travelers from the eastern areas of the city. These areas include Whitefield, Sarjapur, and Mahadevapura. The tunnel is expected to cut travel time to the airport by around 30 minutes.

Main Features of the Tunnel

• Route: The tunnel will connect the eastern state highway to the airport, skipping the heavily trafficked Hebbal flyover.
• Travel Time: The time required to travel from eastern Bengaluru would be decreased by a minimum of 30 minutes.
• Construction Timeline: Construction is planned to begin before the end of the year, with a three-year completion timeframe.
• Capacity Enhancement: The tunnel is a key part of Bangalore International Airport Limited's (BIAL) Rs. 16,500 crore expansion plan.

BIAL's Comprehensive Expansion Plan

BIAL's ambitious development strategy aims to meet the growing demand for aviation services in Bengaluru. Passenger traffic at KIA is expected to reach 85 million annually by 2030-32. To accommodate this increase, the expansion includes:

New Metro Stations: Two new metro stations will be built within the airport premises.

Taxiway Upgrades: The taxiway system will be upgraded to enhance aircraft movement. Terminal 3 will be developed to accommodate the growing passenger traffic.

The Eastern Connectivity Tunnel is a vital part of this broader plan. The aim was to improve accessibility and reduce congestion for passengers heading to the airport.

Benefits for Bengaluru

Traffic Alleviation: The tunnel is expected to divert about 30% of airport-bound traffic, reducing pressure on the city's roads.

Enhanced Accessibility: Passengers from eastern Bengaluru will have a faster, more reliable route to the airport, boosting overall travel efficiency.

Insights from Experts

Hari Marar, CEO of BIAL, highlighted the tunnel's role in reducing traffic congestion and enhancing connectivity. He mentioned, “This tunnel will not only cut travel times but also enhance the overall flow of traffic in the city."

The tunnel is cleverly designed to pass under active aircraft parking areas, ensuring uninterrupted access to the airport without disrupting ongoing operations.

Broader Infrastructure Plans

This project is part of Bengaluru's wider strategy to tackle traffic issues and enhance mobility. Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, recently emphasized the need to address the city's ongoing traffic challenges. He also announced another major infrastructure project—an underground tunnel road—set to begin in 2025.

Comprehensive Infrastructure Future Strategy/Plans

This project is a significant part of Bengaluru's overall plan to address traffic congestion and improve mobility. Karnataka's Deputy Chief Minister, DK Shivakumar, recently stressed the need to resolve the city's traffic issues. He also unveiled another major infrastructure project—an underground tunnel road—set to begin in 2025. "This project will solve Bengaluru's traffic problems and complement existing solutions like metro operations," he stated.

The Eastern Connectivity Tunnel will change travel within Bengaluru by offering quicker, easier access to KIA. It is part of several upgrades currently planned and undertaken to develop the city further. Moreover, it focuses on making the city more accessible to people who live in the area and also for the visitors.

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