When I moved to Gurgaon from the US in 2000, the Millennium City was growing as the most sought after destination.
Then, Gurgaon was in sync with modern lifestyle just like any other Metro or big city across India.
Thirteen years later, however, hence, I am not sure whether the city has lived up to the hype.
Only a select few enjoy a good quality of life here since they can afford to privately manage basic facilities like water and electricity, though they are the state’s responsibility.
When I step out of my high-rise condominium, I see a different world. I don’t see the roads being regularly maintained. The city doesn’t have proper footpaths for pedestrians. Even the Delhi-Gurgaon Expressway has a few foot-over bridges to keep pedestrians at a safe distance from speeding cars.
Moreover, my friends and I can’t walk freely on the busy Mall Mile without hearing lewd remarks and dodging stares from men. Once, I was also mugged here.
The need of the hour is better policing. The city also needs to grow culturally, beyond being just a concrete jungle with high-rise condominiums and swanky office complexes. We need to look for overall community development.
{{/usCountry}}The need of the hour is better policing. The city also needs to grow culturally, beyond being just a concrete jungle with high-rise condominiums and swanky office complexes. We need to look for overall community development.
{{/usCountry}}For this, affluent residents and MNCs will have to step forward and help the government. It’s time we speak up and take up responsibility as citizens of this corporate city.
(The writer, a fashion model-turned-lifestyle consultant, is a resident of World Spa in Sector 30)