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Kolkata has been named India's most congested city in the 2024 TomTom Traffic Index, surpassing Bengaluru. Globally, Kolkata ranks as the second slowest city in terms of traffic speed, just behind Barranquilla, Colombia. This finding highlights the serious challenges of urban congestion in Indian cities, driven by outdated infrastructure and rapid urbanization.
Key Insights from the Report
- Kolkata's Traffic Woes:
With an average speed of 17.4 kmph, it now takes over 34 minutes to travel just 10 kilometers in Kolkata.
- Other Indian Cities:
Bengaluru and Pune follow closely, with average travel times of 34 minutes 10 seconds and 33 minutes 22 seconds, respectively, for the same distance. Cities like Hyderabad, Chennai, and Mumbai also face significant congestion, with travel times ranging from 29 to 32 minutes for 10 kilometers.
- Notable Exceptions:
New Delhi records an average travel time of 23 minutes for 10 kilometers, showcasing comparatively better traffic management despite its size and population.
- Global Comparison:
Kolkata and Bengaluru join Barranquilla, Pune, and London as the top five globally for the slowest traffic speeds. London is the first European city to appear on the list.
Factors Contributing to Congestion
The TomTom Traffic Index draws on 458 billion miles of driving data across 500 cities in 62 countries, analyzing both static and dynamic factors.
- Static Factors: Physical road infrastructure and city layouts.
- Dynamic Factors: Peak-hour traffic, weather conditions, and urban mobility patterns.
Ralf-Peter Schäfer, Vice President of Traffic at TomTom, attributes worsening congestion to outdated infrastructure, inefficient road planning, and the pressures of urbanization. He emphasized the need for cities to rethink infrastructure and urban planning to address these growing challenges.
The Urgent Need for Action
The report underscores the need for strategic urban planning to mitigate congestion and improve mobility in India's growing cities. Upgrading infrastructure and adopting sustainable urbanization strategies could enhance daily commute experiences and overall quality of life.
Kolkata's position as India's most congested city serves as a wake-up call for policymakers. The findings from the TomTom Traffic Index highlight the critical need for innovative and forward-thinking urban solutions. Addressing these challenges is essential for fostering sustainable growth and improving urban living conditions across India.
