Bengaluru faces growing traffic crisis as 60,000 new vehicles hit the streets monthly

Bengaluru, known as India’s Silicon City, is grappling with a severe traffic crisis, with approximately 60,000 new vehicles being registered every month, according to Transport Minister Ramalinga Reddy. This has led to increasing congestion and a dire need for revolutionary changes to ease the city’s traffic woes. During the winter session held in Belgavi, Member of the Legislative Council, K.S. Naveen, raised a question on the matter, prompting the minister’s response. The registration of new vehicles has also contributed significantly to the city’s revenue. In the fiscal year 2023-24, Bengaluru is expected to generate ₹8,742.56 crore from new vehicle registrations. However, the growing number of registrations has also raised concerns about tax evasion. The Regional Transport Office in Bengaluru recently uncovered a case of ₹15 crore in tax evasion during vehicle registration, with a report filed at the HSR Police Station. The rise In vehicle registrations reflects an alarming trend in the city’s transportation system. For instance, between April and October 2023, the city saw over 60,000 vehicles registered each month, with numbers remaining high through November and December. Despite the growing vehicle count, the number of accidents has shown a slight decline. However, experts warn that urgent action is needed to address traffic congestion, which has now become a major concern not just within India, but globally.