Second petition challenges Bengaluru tunnel road, NGT Issues Notice

A second petition challenges Bengaluru’s 17.5 km tunnel road at NGT, citing EIA violations; hearing scheduled for December 6

The proposed tunnel road project in Bengaluru has come under renewed scrutiny with a second petition filed before the National Green Tribunal (NGT). The petition argues that the project bypasses mandatory environmental clearance requirements under the Environment Impact Assessment (EIA) framework, thereby violating existing tribunal orders. 

The case highlights concerns that the sixlane tunnel, stretching nearly 17.5 km from north to south Bengaluru, qualifies as a new highway project. Petitioners contend that such a project requires prior clearance under the EIA Notification of 2006. Even if not classified strictly as a highway, they argue it falls under the category of area development projects, which also demand environmental approval. 

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The petition draws parallels with earlier controversial infrastructure projects in the city, including the steel flyover and the 100km flyover network. In those cases, the tribunal had directed authorities to secure environmental clearance, while the government eventually withdrew its plans. 

Concerns raised include the tunnel’s scale and depth—proposed at 15.5 metres below ground with a finished diameter of 13.5 metres—suggesting extensive construction impact. Petitioners argue that the Detailed Project Report lacks critical information and conflicts with Bengaluru’s Comprehensive Mobility Plan, as flagged by the Directorate of Urban Land Transport. 

The NGT has already issued notice to the authorities following an earlier petition by Bengaluru Praja Vedike and others. During previous hearings, officials informed the tribunal that the project was also being contested before the Karnataka High Court. Despite this, the NGT has decided to continue proceedings and directed the government to submit its response. 

The matter is scheduled for further hearing on December 6, with the tribunal expected to examine whether the project can proceed without environmental clearance and whether it aligns with principles of sustainable development. 

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