Mumbai’s Traffic Woes: Are We Losing Our Discipline?

There was a time when Mumbai was known for its traffic discipline. I remember seeing people adhering to traffic signals even at 2 AM when the streets were deserted. Back then, driving felt safe and predictable. However, with almost 1,000 new vehicles being added to the roads every day, the situation has changed drastically. The traffic sense that once made this city stand out seems to be vanishing fast.

What’s alarming is the increasing number of road rage incidents. Getting stuck in traffic has become routine, and tempers flare quickly. But one of the biggest contributors to this chaotic situation is the rise of two-wheelers, especially motorbikes. With the growing demand for hyperlocal deliveries—be it food, quick commerce, or person-to-person packages—roads have turned into racetracks for delivery riders. These bikers are always in a hurry, zig-zagging between cars, cutting lanes recklessly, and taking unnecessary risks. In their race against time, they’re not just putting themselves in danger but everyone else around them too.

Another concerning trend is that the left lane, which should ideally be open for all vehicles, now seems reserved for bikers. If a car happens to be in that lane, it's met with abusive reactions from the bikers, as if the car driver has committed some sort of crime. Bikers expect that lane to be kept free for them at all times, and if you happen to get in their way, you’re bound to face verbal abuse or angry gestures. It’s become an unwritten rule—one that puts even more pressure on drivers to steer clear of trouble.

The real problem arises when accidents happen. In many cases, if a biker gets hit, it’s automatically assumed that the car driver is at fault. It doesn’t matter whether the biker was cutting lanes or driving recklessly. The narrative immediately shifts to blame the larger vehicle. This not only creates a sense of injustice for drivers but also encourages risky behavior among bikers, who know that, in most cases, they will get away without consequences.

The result? Driving in Mumbai has become a stressful affair. What was once a city known for its road discipline has now turned into a chaotic mess, where everyone seems to be in a hurry, and safety has taken a backseat.

I believe it’s time to address this issue head-on. We need stricter enforcement of traffic rules, not just for cars but for two-wheelers as well. Delivery companies need to ensure that their riders are trained properly and encouraged to drive responsibly, without pushing them to meet impossible delivery timelines. Public awareness campaigns around road safety should also target both bikers and drivers to promote mutual respect on the roads.

What’s been your experience in your city? Do you face similar issues with bikers and road discipline? And most importantly, what do you think can be done to improve the situation for everyone?

Image credit : autocarpro.in

Greater Mumbai Police Traffic Police