- By Ridam Sharma
- Sat, 19 Apr 2025 12:23 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
India’s Most Overcrowded Cities: India’s rapid growth and urbanisation have given rise to some of the world’s most overcrowded cities. In these cities infrastructure struggles to keep pace with the influx of people. Overcrowding leads to traffic congestion, strained resources, and several urban challenges. To know more, let’s take a look at the list of the 10 most overcrowded cities in India, according to the 14th edition of its annual TomTom Traffic Index.
Which Are The 10 Most Overcrowded Cities In India?
Rank | City | Average Travel Time (10 km) | Average Speed |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Kolkata | 34 min 33 sec | 17.4 km/h |
2 | Bengaluru | 34 min 10 sec | 17.6 km/h |
3 | Pune | 33 min 22 sec | 18 km/h |
4 | Hyderabad | 32 min | 18.8 km/h |
5 | Chennai | 30 min | 20 km/h |
6 | Mumbai | 29 min | 21 km/h |
7 | Ahmedabad | 28 min | 21.5 km/h |
8 | Surat | 27 min | 22 km/h |
9 | Jaipur | 25 min | 24 km/h |
Kolkata
Kolkata is the former capital of British India, and today, it is the most crowded city in the nation. Its dense population is a result of historical migration, particularly that of the partition of Bengal and the movement of refugees. Narrow streets and aged infrastructure in the city result in some of the slowest traffic anywhere in India, with daily commutes gravely disrupted by congestion. Overcrowding has driven chronic social and economic issues, even with constant urban renewal projects.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
Bengaluru
India's Silicon Valley, Bengaluru's IT explosion, has drawn millions from all over the country beyond the city's planned capacity. This explosion of migration has led to huge traffic congestion, water scarcity, and strain on the environment. Experts have been warning that if other cities are not developed as alternatives, Bengaluru's overpopulation will keep putting pressure on its resources and quality of life.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
Pune
Pune's development as an industrial and technology centre has attracted workers from all across India. The population in the city is likely to double over the next few decades, which will result in worsened traffic and water supply conditions. City planners are trying to figure out how to meet economic growth with the requirement for sustainable services and infrastructure.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
Hyderabad
Hyderabad is now above Delhi in terms of population density rank, fueled by its booming technology industry and universities. As the city's development brings economic possibilities, it also imposes tremendous stress on infrastructure, public services, and housing. City planners struggle to absorb the city's high growth rate without sacrificing livability.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
Chennai
As a major coastal metropolis, Chennai’s rapid urbanisation has led to significant overcrowding. The city is a major centre for commerce, culture, and education, which appeals to people from across southern India. Traffic congestion and water scarcity are persistent issues here.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
Mumbai
Mumbai is the financial capital of India and the country's most populous city, with densities in some districts well over 28,000 per square kilometre. The economic and entertainment appeal of the city has created sprawling slums, chronic jams, and relentless demands on housing and basic services.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
Ahmedabad
Ahmedabad's industrial sector and educational institutions have turned the city into a hub for migrants. The infrastructure of the city is subject to continuous strain with growing demands for housing, transportation, and public services as the population increases.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
Surat
Surat is one of India's fastest-growing cities in India and credit goes to its textile and diamond industries. Its growth has resulted in overpopulation, with people migrating in hopes of economic opportunity. The city struggles to keep up with its development by upgrading its infrastructure to meet standards.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
Jaipur
Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan and a key tourist hub and administrative complex. Its spreading urban limits are falling behind the influx of inhabitants, causing congestion on roads and strain on civic facilities.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
New Delhi
The national capital draws individuals from across India for government employment, education, and commerce. The infrastructure of the city is always under pressure, with overpopulation causing pollution, traffic congestion, and housing shortages.
Most Overcrowded City In India (Image Credit: Canva)
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