In conversations surrounding Bengaluru, the prevalent issues of traffic congestion and road conditions, notably riddled with potholes, cannot be overlooked. This predicament is especially pronounced during the monsoon season when even a mild shower exacerbates the chaos, inundating roads and compounding the challenges faced by the city’s residents. According to a study, Bengaluru loses ₹20,000 crore annually due to traffic issues.
In February 2023, Bengaluru faced increased traffic disruptions due to the Aero India 2023 event.
In preparation for the inauguration of the biennial aerospace exhibition, “Aero India ” at the Yelahanka Air Force station by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Bengaluru Traffic Police issued an advisory to alleviate traffic congestion in the city on Monday. The traffic adjustments primarily affected vehicles heading from the city towards Bengaluru International Airport. More specifically, the elevated expressway on Bellary Road was temporarily closed for general traffic between Esteem Mall and Bengaluru Airport from 8 am to 11.30 am on Monday. During this timeframe, only vehicles with valid passes for the Aero India show were authorized to use
the road. In addition to these Monday morning modifications, the police also informed the public about the implementation of traffic diversions on Airport Road for the entire week.
In September 2023, Bengaluru grappled with significant traffic congestion along the Outer Ring Road corridor, prompting the traffic police to advise IT companies to delay employee logouts. MN Anucheth, the Joint Commissioner of Police (Bengaluru Traffic), and his team were present on the ORR, actively addressing the congestion and identifying five contributing factors to the unusual traffic jam. This situation left commuters, including tech professionals and students, stranded on the road for nearly four hours. The congestion was attributed to two punctures, a truck with a flat tyre, ongoing Metro construction, and barricades on one side of the road. It is imperative to acknowledge that the existing problems are, to some extent, rooted in the lack
of preparedness and planning in fundamental infrastructure investment and execution. This is further intensified by the swift growth of technology hubs, migration, and investments, attracting a significant population from various states in India. Over a few decades, Bengaluru has transformed from the serene Garden City of India into a dynamic metropolis, with its borders expanding at an unprecedented rate. Delving into the city’s traffic issues reveals complexities extending beyond mere disorder, frustration, and noise pollution, with congestion worsening
each passing year.
Effectively addressing this multifaceted issue requires a nuanced approach, encompassing both short-term and long-term solutions, contingent on the commitment of both the government and the residents. Short-term measures could include the implementation of an odd-and-even system for vehicles, inspired by the successful model introduced in New Delhi. Another viable option is the deployment of a proficient traffic police force equipped to manage real-time traffic situations, coupled with the promotion of carpooling as a sustainable commuting alternative.
Looking to the future, long-term strategies should prioritize ensuring the availability and accessibility of well-constructed roads capable of withstanding monsoon rains. This should be complemented by an annual development plan for sewage lines throughout Bangalore, addressing the infrastructure challenges that exacerbate traffic woes. Additionally, the enforcement of stringent regulations to ensure compliance with traffic rules and regulations is essential.
Imposing a congestion tax on vehicles could be an effective solution to address the city’s perennial traffic issues. This would encourage people to use public transport and reduce the number of private vehicles on the road.
Urban mobility experts have also suggested forming a dedicated traffic management cell to reduce peak-hour congestion. This cell would be responsible for monitoring traffic flow and implementing measures to ease congestion. Another suggestion is to promote public transport by improving the quality and frequency of bus services. This would encourage people to use public transport instead of private vehicles, reducing the number of cars on the road and easing congestion.
The traffic congestion and poor road conditions in Bengaluru are complex issues that require a multifaceted approach. The government and residents must work together to implement both short-term and long-term solutions to address these problems effectively. By doing so, we can ensure that Bengaluru remains a vibrant and dynamic city that is both livable and sustainable.
Cris Fernando Anand Perez, Research Scholar, St Joseph’s University.
