Bengaluru Slips to Sixth Place in Global Traffic Congestion Rankings

Bengaluru, often grappling with notorious traffic jams, has slipped from its position as the world's second slowest city to the sixth spot, according to the latest rankings by Amsterdam-based location technology specialist TomTom. Despite this improvement, Bengaluru retains its title as India's most congested city, causing significant economic losses and challenges for both commuters and policymakers.

Traffic Rankings

In 2022, Bengaluru held the unenviable distinction of being the second most congested city globally. However, in 2023, it witnessed a slight improvement, securing the sixth position in TomTom's rankings of the world's slowest cities in terms of traffic. This information is derived from data indicating that the average time to cover 10 kilometers in Bengaluru was approximately 28 minutes and 10 seconds in 2023, compared to 29 minutes and 9 seconds in 2022.

🚨 Bengaluru is ranked 6th in most congested cities globally in 2023.

Still, Bengaluru remains India's most congested city in 2023.

Average time to cover 10km in Bengaluru - 28 min 10 secs (Tom Tom)#Bengaluru #Karnataka #Traffic pic.twitter.com/yjvej3DmuG

— Index Of India - Tech & Infra (@MagnifyIndia1) February 3, 2024

Global Comparison

While Bengaluru may have improved in the rankings, its average speed of 18 kmph remains slower than any other city in India. London claimed the top spot as the most congested city globally, with an average speed of 14 kmph. Other cities trailing Bengaluru in terms of traffic speed include Dublin (16 kmph), Milan (17 kmph), Lima (17 kmph), and Toronto (18 kmph).

Private Vehicles and Traffic Woes

Bengaluru's traffic challenges are exacerbated by its status as the Indian city with the highest number of private vehicles, surpassing even the national capital, New Delhi. With approximately 23 lakh private cars contributing to the congestion, Bengaluru witnesses the registration of close to 2000 new vehicles daily. This surge in private vehicles poses a substantial challenge for the government in terms of road maintenance and infrastructure management.

Economic Impact and Losses

Apart from the daily inconvenience faced by commuters, the economic impact of traffic congestion in Bengaluru is staggering. The city experiences an annual loss of Rs19,725 crore due to traffic delays, congestion, signal stoppages, time loss, fuel consumption, and related factors. This data, compiled by noted traffic and mobility expert MN Sreehari and his team, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address Bengaluru's traffic woes.

Government's Response

Addressing the challenge, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar acknowledged the significant strain on the city's roads with the sheer volume of vehicles. He highlighted the government's commitment to addressing the issue and mentioned the implementation of white topping on roads, which is expected to enhance their endurance for 30 to 40 years.