What is the current status?
Three Indian cities are ranked in the top five among 416 cities across 57 countries, for having the worst traffic gridlocks as per TomTom Traffic Index for 2019. Bengaluru topping the list with Mumbai and Pune in fourth and fifth positions respectively.
Why is such status ?
According to NITI Aayog, By 2040 more than 50% of India will be urbanised. Urbanisation is happening at the fast pace without commensurable urban planning. This gridlock is the result of poor urban planning and public transportation shortfalls.
The bus services are subpar and tardy, forcing people to opt for private vehicle.
The pace of metro rail expansion have been also as seen in Bangalore. Though Metro is a lifeline for Delhi but the Bus services are below standard.
In case of Mumbai’s urban rail service still caters to millions but hasn’t been modernised anywhere near potential.
What are the ill effects of such Traffic congestion?
We are spending more and more time in traffic. For example, commuters in Bangaluru city spent an average of 71% extra time on the road due to congestion, Which translates residents spending an extra 10 days and three hours driving in peak hours.
Traffic congestion hurts the quality of life, reduces productivity and saps the economic potential of our cities.
Besides this a commuter has to face air pollution. ( Delhi already topped it).
More traffic means more use of Fuel, more damage to environment and planet.
What are the solution that has been tried?
Tough combined with other motive such as women empowerment and curbing pollution, Cities have tried solution such as-Free service to women in public transport, car polling, Odd-even method, etc. But the results are not satisfactory.
How should be approach?
We have two solution either to expand the city or develop a new city nearby to decongest the population. Both has its own pros and cons.