Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, who also serves as the state’s finance minister, recently presented the Karnataka Budget for 2024, marking his 15th budget presentation. The budget, with a substantial outlay of Rs. 3.71 lakh crores, focuses on transforming Bengaluru into a global city through strategic allocations and ambitious projects.
Addressing the city’s persistent traffic issues, the budget outlines plans for the white topping of major roads, covering 147 km at a cost of ₹1,700 crore. This project is expected to be completed by December 2025. Furthermore, the budget proposes the construction of underground tunnels at the traffic-congested Hebbal junction on a pilot basis, aiming to alleviate congestion and improve traffic flow.
A significant initiative involves repositioning the Peripheral Ring Road (PRR) as the Bengaluru Business Corridor, a project costing ₹27,000 crore and set to commence this year under a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model. This ambitious endeavor aims to ease traffic congestion and stimulate large-scale economic activities.
To enhance Bengaluru’s appeal as a global destination, the government plans to construct a 250-meter-high sky deck with the involvement of internationally acclaimed architects. This project aims to make Bengaluru a prominent tourist destination.
Under the third phase of Namma Metro construction, ₹15,611 crore has been allocated, pending central government approval. This investment is expected to add 44 km to the existing Namma Metro lines, improving public transportation in the city.
The Bengaluru Water Supply and Sewage Board (BWSSB) will operationalize the Cauvery Phase-5 project, providing 110 liters of daily drinking water to 12 lakh people at an estimated cost of ₹5,500 crore.
In a move to boost the food and hospitality sector, commercial establishments in Bengaluru are now permitted to remain open until 1 am, contributing to the city’s vibrant nightlife.
To tackle waste management challenges, the Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) plans to acquire 50 to 100 acres at four different city outskirts locations, bolstering the city’s waste management infrastructure.
These transformative allocations signal a commitment to shaping Bengaluru’s growth and solidifying its position as a dynamic global city.
