Bengaluru’s Diwali Calm: From Gridlock to Ghost Town Overnight

Bengaluru’s notorious traffic jams have vanished, leaving the city in an almost surreal state of quietude as millions departed for the Diwali and Deepavali festivals. The tech hub, accustomed to its bumper-to-bumper gridlock, has transformed into a ghost town virtually overnight. Residents who have stayed behind are enjoying remarkably swift commutes, with social media alight with humorous accounts of drastically reduced travel times. One individual playfully shared their newfound ability to reach key city areas in a fraction of the usual time, highlighting the dramatic shift. This mass migration has sparked discussions about Bengaluru’s demographic makeup, with many lightheartedly remarking that the city is home to everyone except true ‘Bangaloreans.’ This urban emptiness is not isolated, as other Tier-1 cities across India are reportedly experiencing similar quiet periods during the festivities. The contrast is striking, given that just days ago, drivers were battling severe congestion on roads like the Outer Ring Road, with journeys stretching for hours. Officials had anticipated this outbound surge, advising citizens about potential delays at major exit points. The current tranquility provides a welcome, peaceful interlude for those who chose or were unable to travel, offering a rare glimpse of a less frenetic Bengaluru.