JUSP proposes Walkable Bengaluru Mission to scale TenderSURE Roads citywide

The Jana Urban Space Foundation (JUSP) has proposed to the Karnataka government the conversion of roads in Bengaluru to TenderSURE standards, similar to those in the Central Business District (CBD), under a project titled the Walkable Bengaluru Mission.

In a letter addressed to Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister D.K. Shivakumar, the foundation called for systemic reforms that prioritise walkability, safety, accessibility, and sustainable road infrastructure across the city.

Drawing on its TenderSURE experience, JUSP envisions upgrading all 1,683 km of arterial and sub-arterial roads to TenderSURE standards, including organised underground utilities by 2035. It proposes bringing 1,000 km of local roads connecting 163 existing and proposed metro stations under these standards by 2030, significantly improving first and last-mile connectivity. 

The proposal outlines the phased development of 11,200 km of collector and local roads under the “TenderSURE Lite” model, beginning with at least five km in each ward.

A key component of the plan is transforming the 60-km-long Outer Ring Road (ORR) into a model corridor. With the construction of 30 metro stations along the Blue Line (Central Silk Board to Kempegowda International Airport via KR Puram), JUSP sees a unique opportunity to convert the ORR from a high-speed vehicular corridor into a multimodal, people-orientated street.

On the ORR stretch, the proposal envisions smoother traffic flow through uniform lanes and intersection design, enhanced walkability and safety with shaded footpaths and cycle lanes, EV-ready infrastructure, well-planned parking, and efficient stormwater management, all in line with TenderSURE guidelines.

The foundation urges the government to notify and enforce TenderSURE’s design and implementation standards. It also recommends that each of the five newly formed corporations establish urban design cells staffed with planners, designers, and experts, while dedicated road maintenance teams be formed within engineering departments. A skill-based certification programme for engineers and contractors, supported by phased training, refresher courses, and official certification, is also part of the proposal.

To fund the initiative, JUSP suggests exploring blended finance, public-private partnerships, and green bonds. It also recommends creating a dedicated technical team within B-SMILE to coordinate design, compliance, and programme management.