Shivakumar to Tejasvi: Bring funds, not just advice; Defends tunnel plan, urges MPs to seek Centre’s help

After an October 29 meeting, Karnataka Deputy CM D K Shivakumar and BJP MP Tejasvi Surya clash over a proposed car-focused tunnel project, funding for metro expansion, and how to reduce Bengaluru’s traffic.

Hours after meeting BJP MP Tejasvi Surya, Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on October 29 responded to Tejasvi’s call to scrap the proposed multi-crore “car-only” tunnel road in Bengaluru. Tejasvi had argued the tunnel favours cars and moves too few people, about 1,800 cars per hour in one direction, and said the same money could build a metro line carrying nearly 69,000 passengers.

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Shivakumar said Tejasvi criticised the project but did not offer funding solutions. “Anybody can give suggestions. But funds are required for (transport and infrastructure) works. What can be done without money?” he said, urging Tejasvi and other BJP MPs to approach the Prime Minister for financial help. The Deputy CM said the state currently gets only 10-12% of the total project cost from the Centre and asked MPs to secure more funds; he offered to join them in meeting the PM.

On public-transport proposals, Tejasvi recommended a citywide plan: a 300-km metro network with three-minute train frequencies, a 314-km suburban rail system, tram services for short links, and high-frequency shuttle buses along the Outer Ring Road to boost last-mile connectivity. He also urged fast-tracking the Bengaluru Metropolitan Land Transport Authority (BMLTA) and appointing a full-time chairperson to coordinate projects.

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Shivakumar said the state is expanding metro lines and is not against these ideas, but reiterated the need for more central funding. When asked about the tunnel alignment near Lalbagh, he clarified the project would not use six acres of the botanical garden; entry and exit points would be placed on the garden’s edge. He also asked Tejasvi to suggest alternate locations if needed.

Tejasvi asked the government to let private players run small buses. Shivakumar warned this could worsen congestion, saying vehicle numbers are already high. On a social note, Shivakumar observed people prefer private cars for family travel and even linked car ownership to social status: “If you don’t have a car, you won’t get a bride at home, that’s the mindset,” he said, highlighting how personal preferences shape transport choices.