DK Shivakumar Urges Centre to Fund Bengaluru’s Metro Expansion Amid Tunnel Road Debate

DK Shivakumar backs Metro push, says central funds are vital; responds to MP Surya’s tunnel road concerns with call for collaborative action

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar has reiterated the need for central government support to accelerate Bengaluru’s Metro and suburban rail projects, responding to suggestions made by Bengaluru South MP Tejasvi Surya during a recent meeting on urban mobility.

While Surya advocated diverting funds from the proposed tunnel road to bolster public transport, Shivakumar acknowledged the merit of the proposal but stressed that financial backing from Delhi remains crucial. He added that he was willing to accompany Surya to meet the Prime Minister and request assistance.

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Shivakumar also addressed concerns surrounding Lalbagh, clarifying that only a small portion of land was needed for development and invited alternatives if that proved unfeasible.

On the tunnel road project, which Surya opposes, Shivakumar maintained that decisions cannot be made unilaterally and pointed out that despite years of discussion, the Centre has yet to release money for suburban rail expansion.

He also commented on Bengaluru’s rising dependence on private vehicles, noting the cultural and aspirational value attached to car ownership. He remarked that if the Centre wants people to give up cars and use public transport, it must make a national-level push.

While Shivakumar welcomed Surya’s inputs and described the meeting as constructive, he concluded with a pointed reminder that advice must be matched with financial commitment.

Also Read: Tejasvi Surya tells DK Shivakumar: Scrap ₹47,000 crore tunnel road, focus on metro and bus lanes