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Bengaluru traffic woes: Google Maps show walking is faster than driving 6 kilometers in the IT capital of India

Google Maps has validated a reality that many residents of Bengaluru, also known as the Silicon Valley of India, have long suspected - sometimes, it’s quicker to walk than to drive through the city’s notorious traffic jams.


Bengaluru’s traffic nightmare

Bengaluru’s transformation into India’s IT hub has attracted a massive influx of professionals, but the city’s infrastructure has struggled to keep pace. Rapid urbanization, poor urban planning, and limited public transportation options contribute to severe road congestion, especially during peak hours. Commuters often find themselves losing hours of productivity while stuck in traffic.


Google Maps confirms the issue

A recent post by X user Ayush Singh highlights this issue with a Google Maps screenshot showing the travel time between Brigade Metropolis and KR Puram Railway Station, a distance of approximately 6 km. According to the screenshot, driving the distance takes about 44 minutes, while walking would take only 42 minutes.

“This happens only in Bangalore,” Singh commented, sharing the screenshot.



Public reaction

Singh’s post quickly went viral, garnering over 300,000 views in just one day. The responses were mixed, with many agreeing that Bengaluru’s traffic is indeed frustrating, while others pointed out that similar situations exist in other major cities.

“Same story across many metro cities in the world,” one commenter noted.

“Mumbai and Delhi also face the same issue during peak hours,” another user added.


A broader perspective

While some users humorously dubbed Bengaluru the “Traffic Capital of India,” others suggested practical solutions such as utilizing public transport to avoid the congested roads.


Innovative solutions to traffic woes

Interestingly, a Bengaluru-based CEO recently proposed an innovative solution inspired by a practice in Beijing. Paras Chopra suggested a ‘rescue’ service where commuters stuck in traffic can call for assistance for a fee of $60. A motorbike rider would pick up the stranded commuter, while another individual would drive the commuter’s car to its destination.

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