Harsh Goenka’s post about Bengaluru’s transformation has sparked an intense online debate, with social media users divided over whether the city’s rapid expansion should be seen as progress or as a cautionary tale of unchecked urbanization. Sharing a photograph of Infosys co-founders Narayana Murthy and Nandan Nilekani, Goenka reminisced about Bengaluru’s past as a peaceful retreat before remarking on how the city had become synonymous with traffic congestion and infrastructure woes. His post painted a stark contrast between the old and new Bengaluru, describing a time when the city was a "serene haven" filled with morning walks in Cubbon Park, leisurely drives in a Premier Padmini, and afternoons spent exploring quaint bookstores—before its transformation into a gridlocked metropolis where people spend more time stuck in traffic on Outer Ring Road than enjoying the famous Garden City breeze.
Narayana Murthy and Nandan Nilekani, both alumni of the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology (IIT), played a pivotal role in shaping Bengaluru’s identity as India’s Silicon Valley. Their company, Infosys, which they co-founded in 1981, was instrumental in putting the city on the global technology map. Over the years, Bengaluru became a magnet for tech giants, startups, and IT professionals, attracting talent from across the country and abroad. The city’s booming IT sector significantly contributed to India’s economic rise and helped establish the country as a global leader in software services. However, the rapid pace of growth came at a cost—unplanned urban expansion, deteriorating infrastructure, and a mounting traffic crisis that has made daily commutes a nightmare for millions.
Goenka’s post resonated with many who agreed that Bengaluru’s charm had been lost amid the chaos of urbanization. Several users pointed out how the city had transformed from a green and spacious paradise into a congested urban sprawl dominated by concrete structures and never-ending traffic jams. A few shared images comparing Bengaluru in the early 1990s, when it was lush with greenery and open spaces, to its present-day skyline, packed with high-rises and overburdened roadways. One user sarcastically noted that the city now offers a "park and ride experience," where vehicles remain parked for longer durations than their owners do. Another lamented that the once-peaceful Garden City had now become infamous for its traffic snarls, pothole-ridden roads, and crumbling public infrastructure.
However, not everyone agreed with Goenka’s perspective. Some argue that economic growth and urbanization inevitably bring certain challenges, and Bengaluru is no exception. One user pointed out that blaming Murthy and other tech pioneers for the city’s infrastructural problems was misplaced, as the responsibility for urban planning and development lay with policymakers and city administrators. Others noted that many cities across India and the world face similar challenges as they expand, and rather than complaining, people should focus on finding solutions to Bengaluru’s urban woes.
Some users also highlighted the economic opportunities that the IT boom had created for millions, emphasizing that Bengaluru’s transformation had led to job creation, increased foreign investment, and technological advancements that benefited not only the city but the entire country. A few users suggested that rather than reminiscing about the past, efforts should be directed toward improving infrastructure, expanding public transportation, and implementing sustainable urban development initiatives. Others called for better governance, stricter urban planning regulations, and policies that balance growth with livability.
The debate around Bengaluru’s transformation underscores a larger issue that many rapidly growing cities face—how to strike a balance between economic progress and sustainable urban development. While Bengaluru’s rise as a global IT hub has undeniably fueled India’s economic growth, it has also exposed the cracks in the city’s planning and infrastructure. As Bengaluru continues to expand, addressing its challenges—such as traffic congestion, pollution, and inadequate public services—will be crucial to ensuring that its growth remains inclusive and sustainable. Ultimately, the city’s future depends on how well its leaders, policymakers, and residents work together to tackle these pressing issues and create a Bengaluru that retains its innovative spirit while also being a livable and well-planned metropolis.
