Bengaluru: Ping, sync, and ride. That’s the new mantra in Sarjapur, where residents have banded together to counter worsening traffic and inadequate public transport by launching a community car- and bike-pooling initiative.The effort, spearheaded by the Sarjapur Residents’ Welfare Association (SRWA), an umbrella body representing over 125 apartment and villa communities, is simple and free. Commuters drop a message in their WhatsApp group with the destination, and those headed the same way respond. The result: fewer cars, smoother roads, and less stress for everyone.The idea is gaining traction not only to save time and fuel but also to reclaim clogged streets. With a surge of large housing projects adding people and vehicles to the area, residents say pooling has become a necessity.Krishna Kumar, who offers rides between Sarjapur and Bellandur, said the initiative makes a difference even if a handful of people leave their cars behind. “There are multiple bottlenecks — Dommasandra Circle, Muthanalur Cross, Kodathi Gate, Carmelaram Gate — and I face them every day. If 2-3 people avoid taking their own vehicles and we shift to one, it eases congestion. Since this is within our community, it feels safe and familiar. It also helps us build our network, so I thought I’d do my bit as well.”For commuters like Cynthia M, 42, the sight of large cars with just one person inside is particularly frustrating. “Carpooling is important. While some may not like travelling with strangers, here it’s neighbours and fellow residents. Four people driving four cars can instead share one, saving petrol and money. It’s also environmentally friendly.”SRWA secretary Joy VR said the initiative was born out of civic responsibility. “With congestion all around, we realised citizens are also part of the problem. Vacant seats meant wasted road space. With restrictions on bike taxis and aggregator carpooling, we decided to build our own WhatsApp network to help each other. It reduces traffic and helps neighbours bond.”Residents now hope their small step inspires other localities to take similar initiatives — one pooled ride at a time.
