The transformation of Bengaluru into India’s IT capital has brought a massive influx of workers to the Karnataka city. Over the decades, the city’s infrastructure has struggled to keep pace with the growing population, resulting in significant challenges. Among the most visible signs of this strain are Bengaluru’s notorious traffic jams.
Every day, the city grapples with severe traffic congestion, particularly during peak hours. Factors such as rapid urbanization, inadequate urban planning, and limited public transportation options contribute to the daily gridlock that plagues the city’s roads.
In light of this, a Bengaluru-based CEO has proposed an innovative solution borrowed from China to alleviate the traffic woes. Serial entrepreneur Paras Chopra shared a screenshot of a news article describing how commuters in Beijing can call for a ‘rescue’ when stuck in traffic. For a fee of $60, a service will dispatch two individuals: one to pick up the stranded commuter on a motorbike, and another to drive their car to the destination.
Chopra shared this idea on the social media platform X, urging Bengaluru entrepreneurs to consider developing a similar service. “Bangalore founders, drop that SaaS idea and build this instead,” he wrote.
Social Media Reacts
The suggestion sparked considerable interest and amusement among X users. While some lauded the idea, others expressed skepticism about its feasibility in Bengaluru’s chaotic traffic.
“Best startup idea,” commented Debonkar, founder of GoToGrowth.
Another user, Sankalp, highlighted the potential but also the challenges: “Here’s a potential startup idea for major cities, but the main concern is establishing a trust-based framework. However, insurance companies may come into play by introducing a new insurance section.”
Skepticism about the cost-effectiveness of such a service was also prevalent. One user predicted, “Indians are way too price sensitive lol. Will sit in traffic 3 hrs rather than spend 1000rs to get rescued.”
Another user humorously noted, “Except that you will be stuck on motorbike instead.”
Amidst the reactions, at least one person claimed to have already tried a similar hack: “I’ve done this so many times, here in Bangalore. Very fun, just book Uber.”
As Bengaluru continues to seek solutions to its traffic issues, innovative ideas like Chopra’s may provide a fresh perspective on how to navigate the city’s congested roads.