In a significant relief for daily commuters, a key road in the heart of Bengaluru has finally been reopened to vehicular traffic after a prolonged closure lasting seven years. The reopening of Kamaraj Road is anticipated to decongest the Central Business District (CBD) and reduce travel time for thousands.
A Long-Awaited Reopening for Bengaluru Commuters
Kamaraj Road, which connects Cubbon Road and Mahatma Gandhi (MG) Road, was officially closed on June 15, 2019. The closure was necessitated by the construction of the underground MG Road metro station, a crucial part of the Namma Metro network's expansion. For nearly seven years, this vital artery remained inaccessible, forcing vehicles to take lengthy detours and contributing to the infamous traffic snarls in areas like Cubbonpet, Shivajinagar, and Richmond Road.
Direct Impact on CBD Traffic and Commute Times
The restoration of two-way access on Kamaraj Road is a major infrastructural milestone. Traffic officials and urban planners predict a direct and positive impact on the flow of vehicles in one of the city's most congested zones. The reopening provides a critical shortcut, allowing motorists to bypass several congested junctions.
The primary benefits expected from this development include:
- Reduced travel time for commuters moving between the eastern and western parts of the CBD.
- Eased pressure on alternative routes like Dickenson Road and Kasturba Road, which bore the brunt of the diverted traffic.
- Improved accessibility to commercial establishments, government offices, and landmarks situated along the corridor.
Looking Ahead: A Smoother Ride for Bengaluru?
While the reopening is a welcome step, traffic management authorities caution that its full benefits will be realized only with disciplined driving and proper signal management. The move is part of a larger series of infrastructure upgrades aimed at solving Bengaluru's perennial traffic crisis. The completion of such long-pending projects brings hope that strategic urban planning can indeed offer solutions to the city's mobility challenges.
The news of the road becoming operational was confirmed on January 2, 2026, marking a fresh start for the new year for countless Bengalureans whose daily commute has been hampered for almost a decade. The focus now shifts to ensuring that this newly available route is integrated efficiently into the city's overall traffic plan.
