Pune News
Pune Becomes India’s Third-Most Congested City

Pune is solidifying its status as one of the most congested cities globally, now ranking fourth worldwide and third in India, according to the TomTom Traffic Index Report 2024. This marks a significant decline from its position as the seventh most congested city in 2023, underscoring the increasing traffic challenges faced by residents.The report reveals that Pune’s average vehicle speed stands at 18 km/h, while Kolkata has the lowest at 17.4 km/h, and Bengaluru is slightly better at 17.6 km/h.
The findings indicate that it takes an average of 33 minutes to travel just 10 kilometers in Pune, compared to 34 minutes and 10 seconds in Bengaluru and 34 minutes and 33 seconds in Kolkata.On a global scale, Pune’s traffic congestion places it fourth, with Kolkata and Bengaluru ranking second and third, respectively. The title of the most congested city worldwide is held by Barranquilla, Colombia, where vehicles move at an average speed of just 10.3 mph.Once celebrated for its educational institutions and thriving industries, Pune’s rapid growth has come at a cost.
Known as the “two-wheeler capital of India,” the city struggles with severe traffic issues despite various interventions, including new flyovers, one-way traffic systems, and metro services.The traffic crisis in Pune has worsened due to a continuous rise in the number of vehicles, driven by urbanization and migration.
Despite efforts to improve infrastructure and enhance transportation, congestion levels keep escalating. According to the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO), vehicle registrations grew by 3.47% in 2024 compared to 2023, with a total of 3.03 lakh vehicles registered in 2024, up from 2.93 lakh in 2023.
“As Pune gains the unfortunate title of one of the most traffic-congested cities in the world, the urgency for more effective and sustainable solutions has never been greater. Authorities and urban planners are challenged not only to accommodate the city’s growth but also to ensure smoother and more efficient mobility for its residents. For Pune and other Indian cities, addressing traffic congestion will remain a critical priority in the coming years,” stated Atul Namekar, traffic expert and secretary of the Sinhagad Road-Warje Residents’ Association.