Pune, 29 September 2025: Traffic congestion is a daily challenge in Pune, which was ranked as the third-most congested city in India in 2024. A recent video from Pune circulating on social media has underscored the contrast in road discipline elsewhere. In a straightforward clip posted on Instagram, Karan Singh, a Pune resident, contrasts the city's traffic disorder with the organized flow he observed in Germany.
While seated in his car, caught in the usual annoyance of a traffic jam, Singh noticed, “I was also caught in a jam in Germany a few days ago. The difference is striking. Even on a two-lane highway, drivers stick to their lanes perfectly, left lane stays left, right lane stays right, leaving the middle lane clear for emergency vehicles. And the best part? It doesn’t require fancy infrastructure. Just a little respect and discipline.”
The caption on Singh's post read: “Think we’re capable of this discipline here?”, a question that resonated with many Indian drivers.
The video rapidly gained popularity, amassing more than 165,000 views and igniting a vibrant discussion on the internet. Social media users reacted with both agreement and frustration regarding the condition of Indian roads.
Many users pointed out the difference with Europe, observing, “Even basic courtesy seems missing here. Abroad, it feels natural to follow lanes and make way for emergencies, but here it’s every driver for themselves.”
Singh's straightforward remark resonates because it highlights a broader reality: responsible driving is not merely about adhering to rules or navigating roads; it involves showing respect for other drivers, pedestrians, and emergency services.
A viewer commented,“We don’t lack rules; we lack discipline and civic sense.” Another added, “The day we respect lanes and emergency vehicles, Indian roads will change for the better.”
Numerous commenters proposed that raising awareness, rather than focusing on infrastructure, is crucial for enhancing traffic management. One user noted, "Change is not immediate, but as more individuals recognize the significance of lane discipline, improvements will occur over time."
