Bengaluru and Pune: Asia’s Most Congested Cities Waste 132 Hours Annually in Traffic
In a startling revelation by the TomTom Traffic Index, Bengaluru and Pune have been ranked as the most traffic-congested cities in Asia. Commuters in these bustling IT hubs lose nearly a week annually in traffic jams, spending an average of 28 minutes to cover just 10 kilometers.
Bengaluru: The IT Capital’s Traffic Troubles
Known as the IT capital of India, Bengaluru tops the list with drivers enduring 28 minutes and 10 seconds to travel 10 kilometers. This adds up to 132 extra hours in traffic annually. Despite continuous efforts to improve traffic management, Bengaluru’s roads remain some of the slowest in Asia.
To tackle these challenges, the Bengaluru Traffic Police launched a redesigned, user-friendly website. The platform, developed by the Centre for e-Governance, aims to simplify traffic-related services. Key features include:
- Traffic Management Tools: Real-time updates on congestion, road closures, and diversions.
- Enforcement Section: Tools to pay traffic fines or dispute challans.
- Route Suggestions: A “Navigate Bengaluru” section offering live traffic data and alternative routes.
- Safety Alerts: A dedicated section for timely traffic news and updates.
Joint Commissioner of Police (Traffic), M N Anucheth, emphasized the website’s ability to provide real-time traffic situation maps and enhanced analytics to assist citizens.
Pune: Western India’s Congestion Woes
Pune, another major IT hub, ranks second in Asia for traffic congestion. Commuters in Pune spend 27 minutes and 50 seconds on average to cover 10 kilometers, resulting in 128 hours lost annually. Despite its smaller size compared to Bengaluru, the city faces similar challenges due to rapid urbanization and inadequate infrastructure.
Other Notable Cities
Following Bengaluru and Pune, Manila (Philippines) and Taichung (Taiwan) also rank among the slowest cities in Asia, with travel times of 27 minutes and 20 seconds and 26 minutes and 50 seconds, respectively. Globally, London takes the top spot, with commuters spending over 37 minutes per 10 kilometers.
Global Traffic Trends
The TomTom Traffic Index analyzed 387 cities across 55 countries, assessing factors like travel time, fuel costs, and CO2 emissions. The insights aim to assist city planners, drivers, and policymakers in addressing urban traffic challenges.
While initiatives like Bengaluru’s revamped traffic website show promise, the road to decongesting these urban sprawls remains long. For residents of Bengaluru and Pune, battling traffic remains an enduring part of daily life.
