Bengaluru's traffic crisis reshapes real estate trends

Once known primarily for its tech prowess, Bengaluru is now grappling with a deepening traffic crisis that’s reshaping the city’s housing market. Ranked third globally in the TomTom Traffic Index 2024 for congestion, the average commuter spends over 134 hours annually in traffic, with 10-kilometre journeys taking more than 34 minutes.

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The city, with over 1.16 crore registered vehicles and 1,200 added daily, is burdened with roadways that can no longer match vehicular growth. As gridlocks worsen, commute time has emerged as a decisive factor in homebuying decisions, rivaling traditional priorities like price and location.

In response, buyers are shifting away from central zones like MG Road in favour of well-connected suburbs such as Whitefield and Sarjapur Road. Demand has surged for properties near metro lines, arterial roads, and employment corridors, with integrated townships and walk-to-work setups becoming highly desirable.

Satellite towns like Hoskote, Varthur, and Bidadi are also witnessing growing interest, driven by better infrastructure and planned metro connectivity. Areas like Hebbal, Yelahanka, and Devanahalli are gaining prominence due to proximity to the airport and key transport routes.

Developers are capitalising on the trend, launching projects aligned with new and upcoming transport infrastructure. With connectivity driving both livability and value, Bengaluru’s real estate landscape is undergoing a transformation shaped by its mounting traffic woes.