Blurb
Rising reliance on private vehicles highlights gaps in public transport infrastructure
Bengaluru
Bengaluru’s vehicle population has crossed a staggering 1.2 crore as of March 31, 2026, underscoring mounting pressure on the city’s already strained transport infrastructure. With nearly 7.9 lakh new vehicles added in 2025–26 alone—averaging over 2,100 registrations daily—the surge reflects growing dependence on private transport amid inadequate public mobility options.
The rapid increase has intensified traffic congestion across the city, where road expansion has failed to keep pace with vehicle growth. The Greater Bengaluru Authority manages a road network of 14,063 km, translating to nearly 900 vehicles per kilometre.
Two-wheelers dominate the surge, accounting for 5.2 lakh new registrations this year, followed by 1.5 lakh cars. Experts point to affordability and convenience as key drivers behind the spike, particularly in areas underserved by reliable public transport.
On the revenue front, the HSR Layout RTO (KA-01) emerged as the top-performing office in Karnataka, generating ₹1,273 crore in 2025–26. It has held the top position for three consecutive years. Other major contributors include Kasturinagar RTO with ₹1,098 crore and Jayanagar RTO with ₹969 crore. Nationally, HSR Layout ranks third after Pune and Pimpri RTOs.
Officials said revenue streams include vehicle registration taxes, commercial levies, and enforcement collections.
Urban planners warn that unless public transport systems are significantly strengthened, Bengaluru’s traffic challenges could worsen, impacting commute times, pollution levels, and overall quality of life.
- Total vehicles: 1.2 crore
- Two-wheelers: 86 lakh
- Cars: 24.8 lakh
- Cabs/taxis: 2.9 lakh
- Autos: 3.8 lakh
- New vehicles (2025–26):
- Two-wheelers: 5.2 lakh
- Cars: 1.5 lakh
- Daily additions: ~2,100
- Peak month (Oct): 86,014 vehicles