Bengaluru traffic police has advisory for commuters ahead of Diwali: 'Significant congestion anticipated'

Bengaluru's traffic congestion has intensified recently with the number of vehicles on the city's roads quadrupling over the past two decades.

The Bengaluru Traffic Police on Tuesday warned commuters of significant traffic congestion in the city during the Diwali festival and advised them to plan their travel accordingly.

In a press note, the traffic police said that the congestion is expected from October 31 (Diwali Day) to November 3.

"As the festive season approaches with Deepavali and Kannada Rajyostava, followed by a long weekend from October 31 to November 3, 2024, Bengaluru traffic police would like to inform the public that significant traffic congestion is anticipated in the city due to increased travel activity during this period," it said.

It said that suitable traffic arrangements have been made to ensure the safety and convenience of commuters.

It further advised commuters to:

Plan Ahead: Organize your travel itineraries in advance and consider the time of travel

Choose Alternative Routes: Familiarize yourself with alternative routes to your destinations to avoid congestion.

Utilise Public Transport: Where possible, opt for public transport to minimise the number of vehicles on the road.

Travel Safely: Adhere to traffic rules and remain patient during peak hours.

Several areas in Bengaluru, including the tech corridor Outer Ring Road (ORR), often faces heavy traffic congestion during peak travel hours.

Bengaluru's traffic congestion has intensified recently with the number of vehicles on the city's roads quadrupling over the past two decades.

The surge has led to severe gridlocks, particularly during peak hours, causing substantial delays and frustration for commuters.

Rapid urbanisation, a booming IT industry and inadequate infrastructure development are some of the factors contributing to the congestion.