This was the most trafficked cities in the world in 2024

Barranquilla, Colombia, was ranked as the worst in the world for traffic in 2024, with residents facing gridlock that leads to long commute times, high stress, and declining quality of life.

«In 2024, Barranquilla's traffic reached the unfortunate status of being the worst in the world, creating significant daily challenges for its citizens. The congestion led to longer commute times, higher levels of stress, and a noticeable decline in overall well-being. With the streets often gridlocked during peak hours, residents faced delayed appointments, reduced productivity, and a general sense of frustration. The strain on public transport systems and the rising air pollution only added to the difficulties, further impacting health and the environment. For many, the worsening traffic became a daily burden, deeply affecting their quality of life.» Photo: Catherine Ortega, Flickr CC BY 2.0

The latest rankings from TomTom's Traffic Index show which cities experience the highest congestion levels. Traffic congestion significantly impacts urban life, affecting daily routines, economic productivity, and public health.

As of January 2025, there is no publicly available information indicating that politicians or officials in Barranquilla have commented on the city's traffic problems. Despite Barranquilla's traffic being ranked among the worst globally in 2024, with an average travel time of 36 minutes and 6 seconds per 10 km, and a congestion level of 45%, leading to commuters losing approximately 130 hours annually during rush hours

Local authorities have not issued statements addressing these issues.

Pollution and climate change by excessive burning of fossil fuels are real threats, not the people who warn that we must take these threats seriously. David Suzuki Canadian academic and environmental broadcaster

Poorest bear the brunt of the burden

The World Health Organization (WHO) has consistently highlighted the severe health impacts of air pollution, particularly from traffic emissions. Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, stated that air pollution threatens us all – But the poorest and most marginalized people bear the brunt of the burden.

WHO data indicates that almost the entire global population (99%) breathes air that exceeds WHO air quality limits, posing significant health risks.

Additionally, the WHO's Global Air Quality Guidelines emphasize the importance of reducing air pollution to protect public health, noting that «ambient air pollution, which is principally driven by fossil fuel combustion, kills an estimated 4.2 million people annually.»

Here's an overview of the top ten most congested cities, their traffic situations, public reactions, political responses, and the broader impact on urban life:

1. Barranquilla, Colombia

Traffic Situation: Barranquilla topped the global list with an average travel time of 36 minutes and 6 seconds per 10 kilometers, resulting in a 45% congestion level. Commuters lost approximately 130 hours annually due to traffic delays.
Public response: The severe congestion has led to public frustration, with residents expressing concerns over prolonged travel times and increased pollution. While specific reports of protests or rallies are limited, the issue remains a significant topic of public discourse.
Political response: Local authorities have acknowledged the traffic challenges and are exploring solutions such as road expansions and public transportation improvements. However, comprehensive plans are still in development.
Impact on city life: The high congestion levels contribute to increased stress, reduced productivity, and environmental degradation. The city struggles to balance urban growth with infrastructure development.

2. Kolkata, India

Traffic situation: Kolkata experienced an average travel time of 34 minutes and 33 seconds per 10 kilometers, with a 32% congestion level, leading to a loss of 110 hours per commuter annually.
Public response: Residents have expressed frustration over traffic delays, particularly during peak hours. While specific instances of protests are not widely reported, the issue is a common topic in public discussions.
Political response: The government has initiated projects to improve road infrastructure and public transportation. However, the rapid urbanization and population density continue to pose challenges.
Impact on city life: The congestion affects daily routines, leading to longer commutes, increased pollution, and health concerns.
The city's infrastructure is under pressure to meet the demands of its growing population.

3. Bengaluru, India

Traffic Situation: Bengaluru's average travel time was 34 minutes and 10 seconds per 10 kilometers, with a 38% congestion level, resulting in a 117-hour annual loss per commuter.
Public response: The city's residents have been vocal about traffic issues, with discussions focusing on the need for better public transportation and road infrastructure. There have been reports of protests demanding improved traffic management.
Political response: Authorities are working on expanding public transit options and upgrading road networks. However, the rapid increase in private vehicle ownership complicates these efforts.
Impact on city life: The traffic congestion leads to significant time loss, increased pollution, and health problems. The city's infrastructure struggles to keep pace with its rapid growth.

Pune, a bustling city in western India with over 7.4 million residents, is known for its heavy traffic and congested roads. With rapid urbanization and a growing number of vehicles, daily commutes are often slow, especially in key areas like FC Road, MG Road, and Hinjewadi IT Park. Narrow streets, ongoing construction, and a mix of cars, rickshaws, and two-wheelers add to the chaos, making navigation a challenge during peak hours. Photo: UrbanShift, Flickr Public domain

4. Pune, India

Traffic situation: Pune had an average travel time of 33 minutes and 22 seconds per 10 kilometers, with a 34% congestion level, causing a 108-hour annual loss per commuter.
Public response: Commuters have expressed concerns over traffic delays, especially during peak hours. While specific protests are not widely reported, the issue is a common topic in public discussions.
Political response: The local government is implementing measures to improve traffic flow, including road expansions and public transport enhancements.
Impact on city life: The congestion affects daily routines, leading to longer commutes and increased pollution. The city's infrastructure is under pressure to meet the demands of its growing population.

5. London, United Kingdom

Traffic situation: London's average travel time was 33 minutes and 17 seconds per 10 kilometers, with a 32% congestion level, resulting in a 113-hour annual loss per commuter.
Public Response: While London has implemented measures like the Congestion Charge Zone to reduce traffic, residents continue to express concerns over congestion and pollution.
Political response: The city has invested in public transportation and infrastructure projects to alleviate congestion. However, challenges remain due to the city's size and population density.
Impact on city life: The congestion contributes to longer commutes, increased pollution, and health issues. The city's infrastructure is continually being developed to address these challenges.

6. Kyoto, Japan

Traffic situation: Kyoto had an average travel time of 33 minutes and 16 seconds per 10 kilometers, with a 39% congestion level, leading to a 95-hour annual loss per commuter.
Public response: Residents have expressed concerns over traffic congestion, particularly during peak tourist seasons. While specific protests are not widely reported, the issue is a common topic in public discussions.
Political response: The government is working on measures to improve traffic flow and reduce congestion, including public transportation enhancements and infrastructure projects.
Impact on city life: The congestion affects daily routines, leading to longer commutes and increased pollution. The city's infrastructure is under pressure to meet the demands of both residents and tourists.

Lima, Peru, one of the worst cities in the world for traffic, is home to over 10 million citizens. Imagine the challenge of working as a traffic police officer in such chaotic conditions—constant exposure to pollution, stress, and noise can take a serious toll on health. Photo: James C, Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0

7. Lima, Peru

Traffic situation: Lima's average travel time was 33 minutes and 12 seconds per 10 kilometers, with a 47% congestion level, resulting in a 155-hour annual loss per commuter.
Public response:

Public response: Lima residents have shown growing frustration over severe traffic congestion, which impacts their daily routines and productivity. The lack of reliable public transport options, combined with the high volume of private vehicles, worsens the situation.

While protests related to traffic are not widely reported, dissatisfaction with the city's infrastructure and traffic conditions has been a topic of concern in public debates.
Increased traffic-related pollution also contributes to health concerns, further amplifying public outcry.
Political response:
Local authorities have acknowledged the severity of traffic congestion and are working on measures like expanding the public transport system and improving road infrastructure.

These efforts face challenges such as limited funding, rising vehicle ownership, and urban sprawl. The government is also looking into integrating more sustainable transport options, such as bike lanes and electric buses, to help alleviate congestion.
Impact on city life:
The high congestion levels in Lima have significant impacts on daily life, contributing to long commute times, stress, and reduced productivity.

The increased number of vehicles also exacerbates air pollution, affecting residents' health. The city's infrastructure struggles to keep up with the growing demand for transportation, leading to a cycle of congestion and frustration for commuters.

Davao City, Philippines, home to former President Rodrigo Duterte, has a population of over 1.8 million residents. According to the 2024 TomTom Traffic Index, Davao City ranked as the eighth most congested city globally and the most congested in the Philippines. Commuters in Davao take nearly 33 minutes to travel 10 kilometers on average. The city also had the worst performance among Southeast Asian countries in the index. Photo: Keith Bacongco, Flickr CC BY 2.0

8. Davao City, Philippines

Traffic situation:
Davao City's average travel time is 32 minutes and 59 seconds per 10 kilometers, with a congestion level of 49%, leading to an annual loss of 136 hours per commuter.

While Davao has relatively less congestion than major cities like Manila, rapid urban growth and increased private vehicle ownership are contributing to worsening traffic conditions.

The city has seen an uptick in traffic-related complaints, especially during rush hours.
Public response:
Davao residents are becoming increasingly vocal about the need for improved infrastructure and better traffic management. The rise in private car ownership, coupled with an inadequate public transportation system, is a primary concern.

Traffic-related protests or rallies have been limited, but ongoing public discourse calls for better road networks, mass transport systems, and environmental considerations.
Political response:
The local government has been proactive in addressing traffic issues by planning for better infrastructure, including road expansions and improvements to the public transportation system.
The city’s rapid urbanization, compounded by limited public transport options, continues to challenge efforts to effectively manage traffic.
Impact on city life:
Traffic congestion has a growing impact on daily life in Davao City, contributing to long travel times, environmental degradation, and rising stress levels among commuters.

While efforts are being made to improve the city's transportation network, the increased demand for mobility continues to create challenges.

9. Trujillo, Peru

Traffic situation:
Trujillo had an average travel time of 32 minutes and 56 seconds per 10 kilometers, with a 34% congestion level, resulting in an annual loss of 102 hours per commuter.

Like Lima, Trujillo faces increasing traffic congestion due to urban growth, inadequate public transport infrastructure, and rising vehicle ownership.
Public response:
Trujillo's residents have raised concerns about the city's traffic, especially during peak hours. Traffic-related problems such as long commutes, pollution, and road safety are common topics in public discussions.

Specific protests or rallies over traffic are not frequently reported, but the issue remains a major topic in the city's development plans.
Political response:
Local authorities are aware of the rising traffic congestion and are working to expand public transport options and improve the city's infrastructure.

However, Trujillo, like other rapidly growing cities, struggles to balance development and traffic management effectively.
Impact on city life:
The traffic congestion in Trujillo impacts daily activities by lengthening commute times and contributing to higher levels of air pollution.

While improvements to the road network and public transport system are in the works, the city's rapid growth continues to challenge efforts to manage traffic effectively.

Dublin, Ireland, with a population of approximately 1.46 million as of 2022, s known for its significant traffic congestion. According to the 2025 TomTom Traffic Index, Dublin ranks among the most congested cities globally, with motorists losing an average of 150 hours annually due to rush-hour traffic jams. Photo: William Murphy, Flickr CC BY-SA 2.0

10. Dublin, Ireland

Traffic situation:
Dublin had an average travel time of 32 minutes and 45 seconds per 10 kilometers, with a congestion level of 47%, resulting in a 155-hour annual loss per commuter.

Dublin’s congestion has been rising due to factors such as increasing population, limited public transportation options, and rising vehicle ownership.
Public response:
Dublin residents have voiced concerns about traffic, with many calling for improvements to public transport and road networks.
While protests are not widespread, public discussions and political debates often center around how to reduce congestion, especially given the city’s environmental goals.
Political response:
The government has implemented measures such as the Dublin Bus Rapid Transit and other public transport projects aimed at alleviating congestion.
The city has also focused on promoting cycling and walking as alternatives to car travel. However, Dublin's public transport system still faces capacity challenges, and the city struggles to balance growth with sustainable transport solutions.
Impact on city life:
Traffic congestion in Dublin contributes to longer commutes, stress, and reduced productivity. It also exacerbates environmental issues, including air pollution.

The city's ongoing efforts to improve transportation infrastructure and reduce reliance on private vehicles aim to mitigate these impacts, but challenges persist due to the city's growing population and limited road capacity.