BIAL will not scrap its eastern tunnel proposal

BENGALURU: Notwithstanding reduction of user development fee (UDF), Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL) is going ahead with the ambitious eastern connectivity tunnel project.
BIAL recently submitted a project feasibility report to the Union ministry of environment as part of the environmental clearance process. It’s planning to build a 2.67-km tunnel at an estimated cost of Rs 1,200 crore underneath the proposed taxiway to provide an alternative route to several areas in east Bengaluru, including Koramangala, Whitefield and HSR Layout.The move is expected to reduce 30-40% of traffic on Hebbal flyover.
BIAL had earlier claimed that any reduction in UDF could lead to a revenue shortfall and they may be forced to drop the project. However, Airports Economic Regulatory Authority of India (AERA) slashed UDF for international and domestic passengers at KIA by 67%. “We have decided not to scrap it since it’s a vital link for passengers moving to and from the airport. The number of flyers will further increase after the completion of Terminal 2,” said a source.
Inter-modal transport hub
Passengers at KIA will soon have access to inter-modal transport infrastructure. With BMRCL planning to extend Metro connectivity from Nagawara to KIA and Terminal 2 expected to be ready by 2021, BIAL recently invited consultants to draw up a plan for a Multi Modal Transportation Hub (MMTH) at the airport.
BIAL officials said the consultant will be finalized shortly. MMTH is expected to come up in front of proposed Terminal 2 forecourt in an area of 52,000 sqm. It will integrate the existing terminal (north) and the proposed terminals 2 and 3 (east and west). BIAL has decided to integrate the Metro with other existing modes of transport (intercity, intracity, regional and local public transport, taxis and private vehicles). BIAL is also mulling providing a baggage tunnel connecting T2.