Deputy CM DK Shivakumar attributed Bengaluru’s persistent traffic congestion to rising vehicle ownership, population growth, and land acquisition laws that mandate double compensation for acquired properties. Speaking at the Times Drive Auto Summit & Awards 2025, he outlined ambitious plans to ease gridlocks.

Surging vehicle numbers
Shivakumar recalled how his home once had a single vehicle, whereas today, he owns six or seven. He noted that Bengaluru’s vehicle count has reached 1.5 crore, making congestion inevitable.

Proposed solutions
The minister emphasized infrastructure expansion, including flyovers, underground tunnels, and a double-decker system integrating metro and roadways. He announced a Rs 1 lakh crore investment in public transport, with plans to seek loans for large-scale projects.

Challenges in road expansion
He highlighted how a 2013 law mandating double compensation for property acquisition has hindered road widening efforts, as property owners refuse to vacate despite high payouts.

Bengaluru vs Delhi
Comparing Bengaluru to Delhi, he remarked that traffic congestion is a universal problem, but Bengaluru excels in education, culture, and knowledge-driven industries.

The event underscored Bengaluru’s role in India’s mobility transformation, as the city moves towards greener and smarter transportation solutions.