Bengaluru's Major Arterial Road Project Enters Final Phase with Underbridge Completion
West Bengaluru's long-awaited connectivity boost is finally materializing as the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) has successfully completed the crucial railway underbridge (RUB) at Challaghatta. This infrastructure milestone marks a significant step forward for the Major Arterial Road (MAR) project, which aims to create a seamless link between Magadi Road and the Bengaluru–Mysuru access-controlled highway through Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout (NPKL).
Technical Challenges and Accelerated Timeline
According to BDA officials, constructing the RUB presented substantial technical challenges as work had to proceed beneath a live railway track connecting Bengaluru and Mysuru. The project was executed in phases over three months through close coordination with South Western Railway.
The 40-metre box-pushing operation proved particularly complex, with each of the eight concrete boxes weighing approximately 1,200 metric tonnes. "Works beneath an active railway line typically require around six months," explained a BDA official. "However, through enhanced coordination with railway authorities, deployment of additional manpower, and round-the-clock work schedules, we managed to complete this critical component in just three months."
Comprehensive Infrastructure Development
Beyond the underbridge, BDA is simultaneously constructing a vehicular overpass located about 10 metres from the RUB. This structure will provide essential connectivity between Blocks 5 and 6 of Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Layout. Officials report that overpass construction is progressing well and should be completed within a month.
The MAR project forms part of the proposed Peripheral Ring Road Phase-2 initiative that will ultimately link Hosur Road with the Bengaluru–Mysuru highway. The state government has approved acquisition of four acres of land along the MAR alignment to facilitate project completion.
Addressing Connectivity Gaps and Future Planning
Officials have identified 17 points where service roads currently have missing links. Work is underway to complete these sections, including installation of ducts and provisions for utilities. Motorists and NPKL allottees have specifically requested that the Challaghatta junction—where the MAR meets the Bengaluru–Mysuru highway—be designed with future traffic volumes in mind to prevent congestion.
BDA currently plans to install traffic signals at this junction and undertake integration works as part of the broader PRR-2 project. Traffic police have been consulted to ensure smooth vehicular movement through this critical intersection.
Enhanced Features and Community Benefits
Responding to public demand, BDA will incorporate a dedicated cycle track along the corridor and implement beautification measures using flower- and fruit-bearing trees. The 11-kilometre road is designed as a 100-metre wide, 10-lane corridor featuring six main carriageway lanes and four service lanes to manage local traffic efficiently.
Multiple rotaries are planned to provide access to various blocks within Kempegowda Layout. Once fully operational, the MAR is expected to dramatically improve connectivity between Magadi Road and the Bengaluru–Mysuru corridor, significantly reducing travel time for thousands of commuters and residents.
With the project now entering its final stretch, officials anticipate full completion by April, marking a transformative moment for Bengaluru's urban infrastructure landscape.
