Traffic congestion in 4 top Indian cities costs economy nearly Rs 1.5 lakh crore: Report

Traffic congestion doesn't only cause inconvenience, other than contributing to the dipping air quality, traffic jams also cost the economy. Boston Consultancy Group, a global consultancy firm has come up with a report stating that traffic congestion in top Indian cities -- Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru and Kolkata -- cost nearly Rs. 1.5 lakh crore annually to the economy. 

According to the report, commuters usually end up spending almost one-and-a-half time longer to travel the usual distance during peak hours -- 7 to 9 am and 6 to 8 pm. 

Kolkata was rated the worst city when it came to traffic congestion followed by Bengaluru. The report suggested Delhiites to still have a better experience with traffic congestions over commuters in cities like Bengaluru, Mumbai and Kolkata, owing to a better road network. 

The report surveyed almost 300 people from each city and studied the top modes of transportation used by the public. Delhi, for instance, had most people commuting via private cards while for Mumbaikars public transport like the local train was the top choice of transportation. 

The report also suggested Bengaluru to be in a pressing need of better road network.