Has Bengaluru become 'unlivable'? Bangalorean shares his 'toxic relationship' with India's Silicon Valley

Economic Times

4 days ago

Synopsis
A Bengaluru resident's viral post highlights growing frustrations with the city's deteriorating quality of life. Once alluring for its tech industry and pleasant climate, the city now grapples with crippling traffic, high rents, and unreliable transportation.
iStock Life in Bengaluru: A Dream Turning Sour for Many A heartfelt post from a longtime resident of Bengaluru has sparked widespread conversation, as it reflects a shared sense of frustration among many living in India's Silicon Valley. Having spent nearly a decade in the city, the user voiced concerns over the worsening day-to-day experience and the deteriorating urban environment. Once drawn in by Bengaluru's mild climate, thriving tech industry, and promises of a superior lifestyle, the individual now feels like they're simply enduring each day rather than enjoying it.The user outlined several challenges that have become all too familiar for residents. A 12-kilometer trip across the city can consume up to three hours due to relentless traffic congestion. A modest one-bedroom flat can cost upwards of Rs 30,000 in rent, often without parking facilities.
Basic transportation has become unreliable, with commuters struggling through multiple ride-hailing apps, only to find none with available drivers. Unpredictable rains further expose the city's inadequate drainage system, and auto-rickshaw drivers have grown infamous for refusing passengers more frequently than dating apps reject matches. While the individual still holds affection for Bengaluru, they described this emotional tug as being trapped in a turbulent relationship—one filled with euphoric moments but overshadowed by unbearable lows."Don't get me wrong, I love this city. But lately it's been feeling like a toxic relationship: high highs and very low lows..." the comment read. The sentiments expressed in the original post struck a chord with many online. One commenter admitted they relocated to the city for professional growth but now feel suffocated by the very conditions that once seemed attractive. Another lamented how traffic woes leave them with little quality time for family, as most of their day is consumed by endless commuting.Not all users remain in Bengaluru. One contributor mentioned moving to Hyderabad and described the change as dramatically reducing their stress levels. Still, some residents continue to cling to what remains of the city's charm, especially its climate, with one user stating that despite frequent travel, Bengaluru still feels like home. Others, however, expressed sorrow over the city's decline, recalling how vibrant and enchanting it felt a decade ago. Today, many feel it has become overcrowded and stifled by infrastructural collapse and escalating living expenses—even Bengaluru's once-thriving tech ecosystem, they say, is now showing signs of stagnation.