The agency confirmed that the Adani Group emerged as the lowest bidder for the tunnel works and that financial bids have been opened and are under evaluation by a committee on which the B-SMILE director serves. The procurement process is described as ongoing and subject to committee review before contractor appointment. Project timelines are to be aligned with evaluation outcomes.
Concerns regarding the proposed alignment near Lalbagh Botanical Garden, in particular possible effects on plutonic rock formations, have been examined and an Environmental Impact Assessment has been completed. Officials conveyed that a detailed environmental management plan is in place and that technical issues raised will be considered with a readiness to adopt mitigation measures where necessary. It was noted that site visits have been conducted to study the formations.
The scheme proposes a three-lane tunnel configuration with one dedicated lane for public transport buses to encourage mass transit and reduce reliance on private vehicles. The design draws on proven tunnelling technology used in other cities but incorporates improvements for local conditions. B-SMILE also outlines a second east-west tunnel and an interchange, together with about 120 km of elevated corridors radiating from the city centre over the next 24 months.
The projects will make use of Ultra-High Performance Fibre Reinforced Concrete to enhance structural efficiency and speed construction, and financing is expected through concessionaires and municipal bonds. With nearly Rs one trillion (tn) in infrastructure investments under way, officials said the city's transformation must be rooted in sustainable engineering, innovation and expert collaboration to ensure long-term urban growth.