The Central government has approved a Rs 711.72 crore fund to enhance safety and infrastructure along the 118-km, six-lane Bengaluru–Mysuru Expressway. Built at a cost of nearly Rs 9,000 crore, the expressway has faced criticism, especially near Bidadi and Mandya, for incomplete or absent entry and exit ramps.
Responding to safety concerns, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will oversee the upgrade over the next two years. Planned improvements include the construction of 14 new access ramps with toll plazas on both sides, enabling distance-based toll collection. This aims to offer fairer pricing for local commuters. Additionally, 22.5 km of service roads will be added to enhance local connectivity. Other upgrades include seven pedestrian underpasses, three railway overbridges, a flyover near Mysuru’s Manipal Hospital junction, 35 bus shelters, and two truck bays.
The NHAI noted that the revamped tolling system and added infrastructure are expected to reduce congestion and improve safety for all road users.