Bangalore, widely known for its telecommunications and information technology industry, has been dubbed the "Silicon Valley" of India. Located in the South Indian state of Karnataka, the modern metropolis is home to nearly 9 million people, making it the third most populous city in the country.

As more cars flood the streets and travel distances increase, Bangalore's challenge will be to encourage a culture of non-motorized transport, like biking and walking. Additionally, the city has been working hard to improve public transit and ease traffic congestion by constructing a new 35-station metro system, known as the Namma Metro, scheduled to open in 2011.