Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah has reached out to Wipro founder Azim Premji with a proposal to alleviate traffic congestion on Bengaluru's Outer Ring Road (ORR). In a letter dated September 19, 2025, the Chief Minister suggested allowing limited vehicular movement through Wipro's campus during peak hours to help ease the severe traffic at the Iblur Junction.

The ORR is a vital route for Bengaluru's IT sector, often plagued by heavy traffic that affects commuters' productivity and quality of life. Siddaramaiah noted that traffic experts estimate this initiative could reduce congestion on nearby stretches of the ORR by nearly 30% during busy office hours. He emphasized that any arrangement would be subject to mutually agreed terms and necessary security measures.

The request comes amid growing concerns from industry leaders and civic groups about the deteriorating road conditions in the city. Recently, Rajesh Yabaji, co-founder of BlackBuck, announced the company's decision to relocate from the ORR due to long commute times and poor road conditions. This has prompted calls for immediate government action from prominent figures like former Infosys CFO Mohandas Pai and Biocon Chairperson Kiran Mazumdar-Shaw.

Siddaramaiah's letter highlights the urgent need for collaboration between the government and private entities to address civic issues. He expressed hope that Wipro would engage with state officials to develop a feasible plan to improve traffic flow. The Chief Minister's appeal comes as the opposition BJP plans a statewide protest over road conditions, increasing pressure on the ruling Congress to deliver swift improvements in Bengaluru's infrastructure.