According to the TomTom Traffic Index 2024, Kolkata has surpassed Bengaluru to become the most congested city in India. This ranking highlights the severe traffic challenges Indian cities face due to ageing infrastructure and rapid urbanisation. In Kolkata, the average speed of vehicles is just 17.4 km/h, meaning a 10-kilometer journey takes over 34 minutes and 33 seconds. This slow pace reflects the city's struggle to accommodate growing traffic demands. Bengaluru, now ranked second, records a similar travel time of 34 minutes and 10 seconds for the same distance, followed closely by Pune at 33 minutes and 22 seconds.

Traffic struggles in Indian cities 

Hyderabad, Chennai, and Mumbai also rank high on the congestion list, with travel times ranging from 29 to 32 minutes for a 10-kilometer trip. However, New Delhi stands out as an exception. Despite its size and population, the capital manages a relatively faster average travel time of 23 minutes for the same distance, showcasing a comparatively better traffic management system.

Global traffic congestion

Internationally, Kolkata and Bengaluru join cities like Barranquilla (Colombia), Pune, and London among the top five most congested cities. Remarkably, London is the first European city to feature on this list, underlining the global scope of urban traffic issues.

Key factors contributing to congestion

The TomTom Traffic Index evaluates congestion through both static and dynamic factors. Static factors include physical road infrastructure and city design, while dynamic factors consider peak-hour traffic patterns, weather conditions, and urban mobility trends.

Ralf-Peter Schäfer, Vice President of Traffic at TomTom, attributes worsening congestion to inadequate road planning, insufficient infrastructure, and the rapid pace of urbanisation. He emphasises the importance of rethinking city layouts to address these challenges effectively.

Sustainable urban solutions

This report underscores the pressing need for strategic urban planning in India’s rapidly growing cities. Upgrading existing infrastructure, implementing innovative road designs, and embracing sustainable urbanisation practices are crucial steps to alleviate congestion.

Kolkata’s position as the most congested city in India serves as a wake-up call for policymakers. It highlights the urgent need for innovative solutions to improve mobility and enhance the overall quality of life in urban areas across the nation.