Bengaluru: In Bengaluru, a cab ride is often more than just a commute — it can turn into time for eating, working, taking calls and even reflecting on life. A German woman’s humorous take on navigating the city’s notorious traffic has now gone viral, striking a chord with residents accustomed to long hours on the road.
The woman, identified as Liz, filmed herself during a cab journey through the city and shared how she prepares for extended travel times. In the video, she is seen with food packed for the ride, editing work on her device, and taking phone calls — all while stuck in traffic.
“When living in Bengaluru, you really learn how to prepare well for cab rides because it takes so long. So you see, I have some food here, I’m editing, I’m taking phone calls, and I’m still not there. Traffic is crazy,” she says in the clip, capturing both amusement and disbelief.
Her caption reads, “Bangalore traffic, we’re all part of it.”
Residents relate to the chaos
The video quickly resonated with locals, many of whom are familiar with the city’s daily gridlock. Social media users flooded the comments section with witty observations and personal anecdotes about surviving traffic in the Karnataka capital.
One user remarked, “You need prior planning before you step out in Namma Bengaluru.” Another commented humorously, “Some of us literally have to work on laptops while driving motorcycles.”
Several responses leaned into the humour surrounding the city’s traffic woes. “I can’t agree more with you. During heavy rains you can take a good nap,” one commenter wrote, referring to the near standstill that often occurs during the monsoon season.
Another quipped, “Where do you think all the startup ideas come from? Bangalore gives you time to rethink your life choices in the cab. That’s why it’s a startup hub.”
The collective humour reflected a shared experience among residents, who often use wit to cope with infrastructure challenges.
A city of growth and congestion
Bengaluru, widely known as India’s technology and startup hub, has witnessed rapid urban growth over the past two decades. The city’s booming IT sector and expanding residential zones have contributed to a surge in vehicular traffic.
While Bengaluru continues to attract professionals, entrepreneurs and students from across India and abroad, it has also struggled with infrastructure constraints, road bottlenecks and increasing vehicle density.
According to transport experts, peak-hour congestion has become a routine challenge in several key corridors. Long commute times have prompted many residents to adopt flexible work hours or remote working options where possible.
Humour as a coping mechanism
Liz’s video highlights how commuters often adapt creatively to the city’s traffic conditions. From scheduling meetings during cab rides to carrying snacks and portable workstations, many have learned to treat travel time as an extension of their daily routine.
Her lighthearted portrayal has been widely appreciated for presenting the issue without criticism or negativity. Instead, it frames the experience as a shared reality that residents collectively navigate.
Urban planners have repeatedly emphasised the need for improved public transport systems, expanded road networks and sustainable mobility solutions to address congestion. However, until such measures significantly ease traffic flow, humour appears to remain a common coping strategy.
As the video continues to circulate online, it stands as a reminder that while traffic may test patience, it also fosters a sense of community among those who endure it daily. In a city known for innovation and resilience, even gridlock becomes material for creativity — and sometimes, viral content.