Traffic congestions bleed B’luru of Rs 19,725 cr annually

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru: Despite its reputation as a thriving tech hub, Bengaluru exemplifies the dual nature often found in bustling cities.

While the city garners acclaim for its vibrant tech sector, it grapples with a significant concern – that of traffic congestion.

A recent study has revealed an astounding annual financial loss of Rs 19,725 crore due to traffic jams, a challenge that deeply impacts Silicon City.

The study, spearheaded by traffic expert MN Srihari and his team, sheds light on the economic toll inflicted by traffic delays, congestion, signal halts, time wastage, and related factors.

The report delves into aspects such as road planning, traffic management, infrastructure requirements, and the effectiveness of flyovers. Surprisingly, despite the existence of 60 flyovers, the study highlights a substantial loss of Rs 19,725 crore for road users.

This finding underscores the interdependence between Bengaluru’s growth, particularly in the IT sector, and the subsequent progress in housing, education, and associated amenities.

With a population exceeding 1.45 crore and more than 1.5 crore vehicles, the city grapples with a pivotal factor contributing to its traffic woes.

Moreover, the city's expansion, anticipated to stretch from 88 sq km to 985 sq km by 2023, is expected to introduce additional complexities. According to the study, an optimal expansion should span 1,100 sq km.

Bengaluru’s paradoxical identity – a technological haven juxtaposed with a traffic-burdened metropolis – encapsulates the contemporary urban challenge of harmonising development and infrastructure.

The study's revelations underline the pressing need for comprehensive solutions that address immediate traffic concerns while aligning with the city's projected growth trajectory.