New Delhi: An alumni from the prestigious Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IIT Madras) has sparked a heated social media debate about the liveability of two of Indias biggest cities – Delhi and Bangalore.Metro city blues: Pollution, population and beyondAnjali Lal, the IIT Madras graduate, took to social media platform X (formerly Twitter) to express her concerns. Bangalore is not going to be liveable in the next five years, just like Delhi isnt now, she wrote. Folks, which city are we all planning to go to and make unliveable nextHer comments struck a chord with many users, reflecting the growing anxieties about the state of Indias urban landscapes. Common issues plaguing these megacities include severe air and water pollution, nightmarish traffic congestion, and a relentless rise in population.Agree or disagree A divided responseLals statement ignited a firestorm of reactions. While many sympathized with her concerns, others vehemently disagreed. Some users pointed out the lack of specific reasons behind her claim about Bangalores future. Others argued that Delhi, while not perfect, has better infrastructure and water availability compared to Bangalore.Beyond the big two: Are there greener pasturesThe debate also shed light on alternative Indian cities that might offer a better quality of life. Users championed cities like Pune, Indore, Dehradun, and Dharamshala for their manageable traffic, cleaner air, and a more relaxed pace of life.The challenge of civic sense: A common threadInterestingly, the discussion wasnt limited to just infrastructure and pollution. Several users highlighted the importance of civic sense in maintaining a livable urban environment. Bangalore, despite boasting a high education level, was compared to Delhi in terms of lacking civic responsibility.The future of Indian cities: A course correction neededThe social media debate serves as a wake-up call for Indian policymakers. It underscores the urgent need to address issues like pollution control, sustainable urban planning, and fostering a sense of civic responsibility among citizens.
