Bengaluru: Leading online trucking platform BlackBuck has announced its decision to relocate from Bellandur along the Outer Ring Road (ORR) after nearly a decade, citing prolonged commute times, poor road conditions, and worsening infrastructure. Officials say the move underscores growing concern among corporate offices about the city’s transport and connectivity challenges, particularly in its IT corridors.
According to company sources, the average commute for BlackBuck employees has risen to over 90 minutes one way, compounded by potholes, dust, and uneven road surfaces. “Maintaining operations here has become unsustainable,” a company official noted. The relocation highlights a structural problem for Bengaluru, where rapid commercial expansion has outpaced infrastructure development.The Greater Bengaluru IT Companies & Industries Association expressed concern over the deteriorating conditions along ORR, pointing to slow traffic movement, potholes, and erratic travel times. Officials emphasised that the departure of prominent firms could affect Bengaluru’s standing as a major technology hub in India unless urgent intervention occurs.
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Urban planning experts say that while funding announcements, such as the Rs 1,100 crore allocation for road development, are a step forward, comprehensive planning, including improved metro connectivity, smart traffic management systems, and enhanced public utilities, is crucial to sustaining corporate operations. “The city must adopt a long-term roadmap that addresses both road quality and commuter safety,” an official from the urban transport department stated.The issue has recently gained public attention after a viral video showcased school children navigating rough roads, exposing the daily struggles of commuters. Government authorities have promised accelerated road repair projects, including resurfacing key stretches of ORR, construction of bypasses, and installation of proper drainage systems to reduce wear and tear on roads during monsoon months.
The BlackBuck relocation illustrates a broader trend where firms are reassessing location strategies based on employee convenience, urban infrastructure, and sustainability concerns. Corporate decision-makers are increasingly factoring commute times and road safety into operational planning, as part of a wider push toward equitable and employee-friendly city spaces.Deputy Chief Minister and Bengaluru Development Minister confirmed that road development initiatives will prioritise high-density IT corridors, including Bellandur and Whitefield. Officials aim to combine short-term repairs with long-term sustainable solutions to ensure smooth traffic flow, reduce vehicle emissions, and improve the overall urban environment.
Industry analysts suggest that Bengaluru’s ability to retain leading technology firms will hinge on visible, consistent improvements in infrastructure. Failure to address these issues could result in companies moving to peripheral locations or other cities offering better transport facilities, potentially impacting the city’s economic growth.
