Skyscrapers in green zones? Bengaluru’s tunnel project may pave the way for ‘vertical concrete forests’

Bengaluru may see a significant urban transformation as plans emerge to allow high-rises in environmentally sensitive areas to finance the tunnel road project.

Updated on: Oct 27, 2025, 19:03:53 IST

By HT News Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

Bengaluru’s skyline may soon pierce through its remaining green patches, as the state government plans to permit high-rises up to 15 floors or more in some of the city’s most environmentally sensitive areas. The move comes as part of an ambitious effort to lure private investment into the proposed ₹17,800-crore Hebbal to Silk Board underground tunnel road, one of Bengaluru’s costliest and most controversial mobility projects.

Bengaluru authorities plan to allow high-rises in environmentally sensitive areas to attract private investment for the controversial and expensive tunnel road project. ((AI generated image))

ALSO READ | Bengaluru tunnel road project: Underground corridor to connect major party of city, reduce traffic congestion

According to tender documents, the government is offering six acres of prime land across five locations, Hebbal, Race Course, Palace Grounds, Lalbagh, and Silk Board Junction, to the selected bidder, said a report by the Deccan Herald. These sites, designated as intermodal hubs, will be allowed to use a record-breaking Floor Space Index (FSI) of 5, five times the usual limit under Bengaluru’s current zoning rules. Bengaluru normally restricts FSI to 3.25.

ALSO READ | Autorickshaw overturns on Bengaluru's Hosur road after dangerous overtaking attempt. Video

While officials claim the relaxation is meant to make the 16.75-km twin-tube tunnel financially viable, requiring 60 per cent private investment, urban experts warned it will encourage unrestrained construction and worsen congestion. They also argued that the model forces developers to maximise real estate profits rather than improve transport efficiency.

ALSO READ | Two drivers held for murder of woman found wrapped in bedsheet in parked auto: Report

Under the plan, these “hubs” could host commercial towers, toll plazas, and parking facilities, with private operators retaining 100 per cent of the ancillary revenues, from advertisements to toll collections, for up to 44 years. Critics feared that by monetising Bengaluru’s last green buffers, the city risks trading sustainability for skyscrapers.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Get the latest City News, local updates, weather alerts and breaking stories from Bengaluru, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad and other major cities across India on Hindustan Times.