Screen addiction among Bengaluru’s auto and cab drivers is compromising road safety. Over 34,000 cases of mobile phone use while driving recorded by traffic police between January and September 2025 overall.
Drivers frequently watch social media reels, YouTube videos, or use phones under the pretext of navigation, causing passenger discomfort and safety fears. Despite official warnings and union acknowledgments, enforcement remains uneven. This growing problem demands urgent, collective action to safeguard Bengaluru’s roads.
Drivers Distracted Behind the Wheel
A Bengaluru commuter recently shared a personal account: “Recently, I had many experiences where Uber/Ola cab or auto drivers use their phone while driving watching reels, YouTube or something. I tried to stop some of them; they then open up maps and show that they are using it for directions. Literally, it feels very unsafe.”
Another incident involved a car moving at a snail’s pace, stopping and starting at 5 kmph, causing traffic frustration. The passenger noticed the woman driver at a red light “busy on phone WHILE DRIVING.” The commuter lamented, “Are we this addicted to phones? We don’t care about safety”.
Further, viral posts and social media discussions highlight how drivers scrolling Instagram reels or watching videos while driving distract themselves dangerously.
Work Environment and Stress Factors
Underlying this issue are the stressful and demanding working conditions for many drivers. Studies highlight that long hours, mental stress, and isolation lead to unhealthy coping behaviours, including excessive phone use.
Drivers often juggle multiple devices for navigation and entertainment, amplifying distraction risks. While unions admit a minority engage in unsafe screen use, they also stress the importance of education, enforcement, and support addressing drivers’ welfare.
Rising Vehicle Numbers Exacerbate Safety Challenges
Bengaluru’s traffic woes are further compounded by the sharp rise in vehicle registrations, with over 2,700 new vehicles hitting city roads daily in October 2025 alone. The city now houses more than 1.2 crore registered vehicles, including cars, two-wheelers, and commercial vehicles, intensifying congestion and infrastructure strain.
This surge exacerbates existing road safety challenges, with Bengaluru recording the highest number of accidents and fatalities in Karnataka, 21,910 accidents and 4,154 deaths over the last five and a half years. Officials stress that growing traffic volumes demand stricter enforcement and enhanced public awareness campaigns to prevent further loss of life.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
This rising trend of distracted driving due to screen addiction demands urgent action that balances enforcement with empathy. It is crucial to support drivers facing stressful conditions while holding them accountable for passenger safety.
A collaborative approach among authorities, unions, drivers, and commuters can help build a road culture founded on mutual respect and responsibility.
New Threat in Bangalore
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