Brace yourself, Bengaluru! Traffic could get a whole lot worse as BBMP announces major roadwork in many key areas

There is no dearth to Bengaluru’s traffic challenges. When you’re not dangerously swerving around potholes far too deep to be considered safe, you’re stuck in a traffic jam watching curbside snails overtake you. And it seems like the metro’s traffic problem may be receiving another kick in the shin soon, as per a new official announcement.

The Bruhat Bengaluru Mahanagara Palike (BBMP) has embarked on an ambitious project to white-top 150 km of Bengaluru’s road network. The list of targeted roads includes some of the busiest roads in the city, including MG Road, Cubbon Road, Dr. Rajkumar Road, Residency Road, Chord Road, and Malleswaram 8th Main Road.


As per the administrative body, this move to replace asphalt with concrete will aim to enhance road durability and provide a pothole-free driving experience, which should help with reducing the long-term costs associated with road maintenance. While it is indeed a welcome change, the announcement has, quite understandably, sparked a heated debate among concerned residents.

Concerns with traffic disruptions and water seepage

For instance, activists and local residents have noted how poorly white-topping projects have fared in the past, which saw roads developing cracks within months of completion. Such activities also often disrupt local traffic and businesses.

“While the intention to create durable, pothole-free roads is commendable, the approach is fundamentally flawed,” explained activist Shiva Kumar to Bangalore Mirror. “The primary issue is that white-topped roads hinder rainwater seepage, worsening urban flooding — a problem already plaguing our city”.

However, BBMP Chief Commissioner Tushar Giri Nath, during an inter-departmental meeting, has assured that steps are being taken to minimise disruptions and ensure the timely completion of the project.

To mitigate traffic disruptions, the BBMP is coordinating with traffic police to identify alternative routes and ensure the smooth flow of vehicles during construction. Chief Engineer Prahlad mentioned that work will be carried out day and night to adhere to the timeline. The BBMP is also installing utility ducts on both sides of the roads to prevent future digging, ensuring that the newly white-topped roads remain intact.

Water and sewer pipe relocation

In addition to the white-topping, another comprehensive plan has also been set in motion to relocate utilities, including water and sewer pipes by the Bangalore Water Supply and Sewerage Board (BWSSB), as well as cables from Bangalore Electricity Supply Company Limited (BESCOM) and Karnataka Power Transmission Corporation (KPTCL). This coordinated effort aims to minimise the need for future road work and disruptions.

As Bengaluru braces for these major changes, the BBMP's commitment to a pothole-free city is evident. However, the success of this project will ultimately depend on effective coordination, timely completion, and addressing the concerns raised by the city's residents and activists.