Bengaluru, Mumbai, Pune in global top 5 most traffic congested cities list; know how to beat the snarl-up too

Three Indian cities have been included in the list of top five most traffic congested cities globally, according to TomTom Traffic Index by the location technology specialist TomTom (TOM2). Bengaluru is the worst in the world as it takes the top spot this year with drivers in the southern Indian city expecting to spend an average of 71% extra travel time stuck in traffic. India topped the TomTom Traffic Index 2019 with 4 of its cities amongst the 10 most congested cities globally.

While Bengaluru has grabbed the top spot, Mumbai (65%), Pune (59%) and New Delhi (56%) found themselves at 1st, 4th, 5th and 8th spot respectively. The other global cities featured amongst the top 10 include Manila from The Philippines, Bogota from Colombia, Moscow from Russia; Lima from Peru, Istanbul from Turkey, and Jakarta from Indonesia.

On an average, Delhiites driving during peak hours spend an extra 190 hours, i.e., 7 days, 22 hours in traffic each year. The city’s heaviest congestion (81%) was recorded on October 23, 2019, while its lowest congestion (6%) was recorded on March 21, 2019.

Most Congested cities globally -

Most congested cities in Asia -

How to beat traffic congestion?

Fortunately, there is a way to beat the logjam and spare yourself from wasting time, frustration as well as pollution, not mention wear and tear on the vehicle. Here is how:
1. Plan - There is no substitute to planning. Figure out the best routes possible and favourable time for travel to beat traffic.

2. Trust technology - Take the route suggested by up-to-date navigation, even if it is less traveled, as the suggestion is based on real-time traffic conditions on the route you are taking.

3. Consider alternatives - Choose your mode of travel depending on the distance you need to travel. Consider ride-sharing, public transport or non-motorized options such as cycling or scooters.

4. Work with your city - Together, city authorities, vehicle manufacturers, traffic signal system providers, parking facilities, traffic information providers, shared mobility providers, startups and, most importantly, the public, are experimenting and transforming cities worldwide. Inform yourself of the initiatives taking place in your urban area and how you can benefit from them.