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The Karnataka Cabinet on Thursday approved infrastructure projects worth ₹2,141.57 crore, which include asphalting arterial, sub-arterial, and major ward roads, as well as improving drains in Bengaluru. The project also covers the development of parks and other essential civic infrastructure. The Cabinet cleared works under two separate initiatives — asphalting arterial and sub-arterial roads worth ₹1,241.57 crore under the Special Infrastructure Project (SIP) and ward development and infrastructure works worth ₹900 crore under the Chief Minister’s Infrastructure Development Programme (CMIDP). The SIP projects will not only include asphalting but also resurfacing, drain improvement, and footpath works. The approval comes amid sustained outrage over the city’s deteriorating civic infrastructure. Under the CMIDP, the projects will also cover the development of parks, burial grounds, markets, schools, samudhaya bhavanas (community halls), and the construction of multipurpose buildings. Funds will also be allocated to build new ward offices for all five city corporations. At the first Greater Bengaluru Authority (GBA) meeting held on October 10, Chief Commissioner M. Maheshwar Rao directed newly appointed corporation commissioners to prepare an action plan for road infrastructure and ward development. Following this, commissioners identified specific works not covered under any other ongoing projects and submitted proposals stating that all works would follow Indian Roads Congress and Road Manual guidelines. Upon examining the proposal, the Finance Department observed that allocating ₹1,242 crore for arterial and sub-arterial road development would reduce the financial envelope for white-topping and buffer roads over the next three years. The department granted approval subject to a corresponding reduction in commitments toward those projects. For ward-level works, the Finance Department directed that a committee headed by the GBA Chief Commissioner be formed to monitor progress. In its approval note, the government stated that these projects are essential to provide better infrastructure for citizens, attract new investments and companies to the city, and retain existing businesses in Bengaluru.
