The proposed Rs 488 crore Varthur flyover project in East Bengaluru has sparked strong opposition from local residents, who are advocating for a metro line instead. Under the banner of the Varthur Nagarikara Hita Rakshana Vedike, the civic group has raised concerns over legal, environmental, and planning violations, urging authorities to prioritize sustainable and future-ready mobility solutions.
Key Highlights:
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- The flyover, spanning 1.92 km in length and 60 feet in width, aims to reduce traffic congestion but has faced criticism for lack of public consultation and transparency in cost escalation
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- Residents allege that the project violates the Karnataka Town & Country Planning Act and lacks necessary approvals, making it legally unsustainable
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- Environmental concerns include construction within the buffer zone of Varthur Lake, posing flood risks and contributing to groundwater depletion and urban heat island effects
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- The group has proposed a metro line connecting Jigani to Kadugodi Tree Park via Varthur as a more effective alternative, citing examples from global cities like Seoul and San Francisco that prioritize public transport over flyovers
The memorandum submitted to Chief Secretary Dr. Shalini Rajneesh highlights the need for mass transit options to address the city’s growing population and mobility challenges. Residents believe that sustainable infrastructure, such as metro connectivity, will better serve the community while preserving Bengaluru’s environmental and cultural heritage.
Sources: Times Now, Hindustan Times, Bangalore Mirror