Driving Solo? Get Ready To Pay New Tax!

South Indian Metropolitan city, Bengaluru phases, the maximum amount of traffic congestion every now and again. In order to mitigate this problem, the Karnataka government has come up with a very interesting solution.

The Bengaluru administration is planning to introduce a congestion tax to reduce heavy traffic on the city’s busiest roads. Under this rule, people who drive alone in their cars on the Outer Ring Road (ORR) and other major routes may have to pay a special fee. However, cars carrying two or more people will not be charged.

This idea is part of a plan to manage traffic instead of just building more roads. Officials believe that by charging solo drivers, more people will switch to carpooling or public transport.

Earlier, a committee also suggested applying this tax on nine busy roads like Sarjapur Road, Hosur Road, Ballari Road, Old Madras Road, Tumakuru Road, and others during peak hours.

However, there are several challenges. Many people may oppose the tax, especially those who do not have reliable public transport options. The government will also face technical problems, such as tracking vehicles, collecting the fee, and deciding on exemptions for emergency vehicles.

Experts say the success of this tax depends on improving Bengaluru’s public transport system. If metro, bus, and suburban rail options are strengthened, this policy could help reduce traffic jams and pollution. Otherwise, it may just burden commuters.