The proposed Bangalore Peripheral Ring Road (PRR), a 74-kilometer circular highway designed to ease traffic congestion, has encountered another setback as the third tender for its construction failed to attract any qualified bids, according to the Bangalore Development Authority (BDA). Initially floated in January with an estimated cost of Rs 27,000 crore, this marks the third unsuccessful attempt to secure a bidder, following two previous tenders last year.

The PRR aims to improve connectivity by encircling the city and includes plans for eight lanes, six service lanes, 16 flyovers, and connectivity through 10 major junctions and over 100 minor intersections. Key locations like Hesarghatta Road and Whitefield Road are among the critical areas set for development.

Despite the project's significance, challenges have emerged. A Kenya-based company participated in the third tender but did not qualify in the technical bidding, lacking the requisite experience for the project. Additionally, land acquisition costs have tripled, contributing to significant delays.

Originally estimated at Rs 14,000 crore, the project's cost has ballooned to Rs 27,000 crore due to increased land acquisition demands in accordance with the 2013 Land Acquisition Act. The successful bidder is expected to arrange all capital for the project and recover investments through tolls over 50 years.

With no successful bids yet, BDA is exploring alternative funding strategies, including raising a Rs 15,000 crore loan and seeking additional government support. They are also considering transferring the project to the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).

The PRR is poised to feature extensive infrastructure, including 16 flyovers, 10 overpasses, and bridges over seven water bodies. Designed as a greenfield expressway, the project also incorporates green spaces, footpaths, and provisions for future metro integration.

As BDA deliberates its next steps, the fate of the PRR project remains uncertain, emphasizing the need for critical decisions to address Bangalore's growing traffic challenges.