The 10.8 km toll-free Major Arterial Road (MAR), designed to enhance connectivity between south and west Bengaluru, is expected to be completed in the coming months. The 10-lane road extends from Challaghatta, near the Namma Metro depot on Mysuru Road, to Kadabagere Cross on Magadi Road. Running parallel to the tolled NICE corridor, it is positioned approximately 2 km away and is anticipated to significantly reduce travel time between these regions from 1.5 hours to just 10 minutes.

Developed by the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA), the project initially had an estimated cost of Rs 4.65 billion, which has now escalated to Rs 5.85 billion. The road passes through several villages, including Kambipura, K Krishna Sagara, Bheemanakuppe, Kommaghatta, Kenchanapura, and Sulikere. One of its key benefits is providing direct access to BDA’s Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout (NPKL), improving connectivity for residents in the area.

The project has encountered multiple challenges, particularly in land acquisition and environmental clearances. The acquisition of 321.1 acre faced delays, and ongoing discussions with the forest department are holding up the approval for diverting 2 acres of land within the Sulikere reserve forest. Additionally, a railway underpass along the route is under construction, while 300 meters of the road near Mysuru Road remain incomplete, awaiting the finalisation of the Challaghatta Metro depot work.

The land acquisition process began with notification on July 27, 2011. However, tenders were issued only in September 2017, and construction commenced in 2018. The original deadline for completion was August 2019, but due to various setbacks, the project has been delayed. Despite these challenges, authorities expect the road to be operational soon.

News source: Hans India