On September 25, 2025, the Karnataka High Court issued a notice to the State government and other respondents regarding a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) challenging the tender process for the Bengaluru Twin Tunnel Road Project. The PIL was filed by Dr. Adikesavalu Ravindra and others, who raised concerns about the project's environmental and legal compliance.
Project Overview
The proposed underground road project, estimated to cost approximately ₹19,000 crore, aims to connect Hebbal to Silk Board in Bengaluru. The State government has initiated the tender process, with plans to finalize the award soon.
Petitioners' Concerns
The petitioners contend that the tender notification dated July 14, 2025, and subsequent steps—including the Request for Proposal (RFP), pre-bid proceedings, bid submission, bid evaluation, and proposed issuance of the Letter of Award—should be quashed. They argue that the feasibility study conducted by Altinok Consulting Engineering Pvt Ltd in December 2024 and the Detailed Project Report (DPR) prepared by Rodic Consultants Pvt Ltd, including a revised DPR in February 2025, fail to comply with mandatory legal standards and exhibit internal inconsistencies. Additionally, the petitioners challenge the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority's letter dated November 26, 2024, which opined that prior environmental clearance is not required for the project.
Court's Observations
During the hearing, Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Joshi noted that while the petitioners had approached the court later than expected, they had gathered data under the Right to Information Act. The bench remarked that the project is extensive and will span several years, suggesting that if the petitioners' claims regarding the lack of an impact assessment study are valid, the respondents should address whether such studies have been conducted and whether they are necessary. The matter was scheduled for further hearing on December 9, 2025.
Conclusion
The Karnataka High Court's notice to the State government highlights the legal scrutiny surrounding large-scale infrastructure projects and their compliance with environmental and legal standards. The upcoming hearing will be pivotal in determining the project's progression and adherence to necessary assessments.
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