In their maiden budgets, both Bengaluru City East and Central Corporations allocated major chunks—62% and 63%, respectively, of their total outlay—for development works, of which improving road infrastructure and addressing connectivity woes have gained central focus. After failing to take off for many years, both Corporations intend to revive road widening projects again this year. Both Corporations have set aside funds for land acquisition to ensure these projects take off.
Both corporations are raising ₹200 crore each through municipal bonds, which will be used exclusively for road development. While the Central Corporation has not specified the exact works to be undertaken using these funds, the East Corporation plans to build a flyover from Varthur towards Gunjur and a grade separator on Alpine Eco Road.
Land acquisition and road widening
A senior officer from the east corporation explained that their jurisdiction includes one of the busiest roads in the city, the Outer Ring Road, but the connecting roads require major upgrades, an issue also flagged by citizen groups in East Bengaluru.
The central corporation faces similar challenges, particularly congestion and a substantial increase in the number of vehicles in its jurisdiction, eventually leading to poor road conditions. Compounding the issue is the unavailability of land to construct new roads. However, the corporation has identified scope for widening existing roads and improving their quality.
