The Karnataka High Court has issued notice to the state government and other respondents in response to a public interest litigation challenging the proposed twin‑tunnel road project in Bengaluru. The petitioners, including an 82‑year‑old resident and other citizens, have sought to quash the tender notification issued in July 2025, along with all subsequent proceedings, including the request for proposal, pre‑bid process, bid evaluation, and the proposed letter of award.
The twin‑tunnel project involves the construction of an underground three‑lane road stretching approximately 16.7 kilometres, connecting Hebbal to Silk Board, with an estimated cost of ₹17,000‑19,000 crore. The petitioners challenge the feasibility study issued in December 2024, the detailed project report issued in early 2025, and a communication from the State Environment Impact Assessment Authority in November 2024 that indicated prior environmental clearance was not required.
The petitioners contend that the feasibility study and detailed project report suffer from internal inconsistencies, were prepared in undue haste, and lack the necessary geological and hydrological surveys as well as comprehensive mobility planning. They also argue that the traffic model used in the project excludes critical segments such as two‑wheelers and autorickshaws, which constitute the majority of Bengaluru’s traffic, raising concerns about the practicality and safety of the project.
The High Court bench, presided over by Chief Justice Vibhu Bakhru and Justice C.M. Joshi, observed that although the petitioners approached the court relatively late in the process, the long-term nature of the project justified a detailed examination of their concerns. The bench clarified that while the tender process may continue, the state government and other respondents are required to file detailed responses addressing issues such as whether an environmental impact assessment study has been conducted and whether such a study is necessary under the law.
The matter has been scheduled for further hearing on December 9, during which the court will examine the detailed responses from the state government and other respondents. The High Court will consider whether the project can lawfully proceed in light of the environmental, procedural, and planning concerns raised by the petitioners.
This development highlights the judiciary’s active role in scrutinising large-scale infrastructure projects, ensuring that public interest, environmental sustainability, and procedural transparency are maintained at every stage of planning and implementation.
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