BDA to Open 10.3km Bicycle Track Between Magadi Road and Mysuru Road
The Bangalore Development Authority (BDA) is set to inaugurate a new 10.3-kilometre dedicated bicycle track in Bengaluru, establishing a continuous corridor for cyclists away from regular vehicular traffic.
The lane is being developed along the service road of the new 11-kilometre Major Arterial Road (MAR) that connects Magadi Road and Mysuru Road. The project is scheduled to be officially opened on June 27 during the Nadaprabhu Kempegowda Jayanti celebrations.
The project has been fast-tracked by BDA Chairman NA Haris and Commissioner P Manivannan. The upcoming inauguration is also expected to mark the first major infrastructure work launched by Chief Minister DK Shivakumar after assuming office.
According to BDA officials, the construction works for the road are currently in an advanced stage. The dedicated bicycle lane stretches across almost the entire corridor, except for the underpass stretch. Workers are currently executing final-phase allied works, which include the installation of road signages, lane markings, and the painting of underpasses.
This new infrastructure is highly significant for the cycling community of Bengaluru, which has witnessed a steady decline in dedicated cycling spaces. Previously, the city had introduced bicycle lanes along the Outer Ring Road, specifically between Silk Board and KR Pura, as well as in parts of the central business district. However, much of that infrastructure was dismantled as Namma Metro construction work gathered pace along those routes.
BDA officials stated that the Magadi Road to Mysuru Road corridor is poised to become one of the most substantial cycling routes in Bengaluru, offering a safer and more reliable alternative for local commuters.
The Major Arterial Road itself is one of the city's most anticipated infrastructure projects. It faced years of delays before receiving a major push over the past year. To pave the way for its completion, the BDA successfully finished several critical components of the project, including a key underpass beneath the busy railway line near Challaghatta.
