Challenges and Criticism in Chandigarh: The Downsides of Living in a Planned City
Chandigarh, often hailed as a planned city par excellence, is a testament to modern urban planning. However, moving from Kochikerala to Zirakpur, followed by the purchase of a house in Zirakpur, has offered me a unique perspective on daily living in Chandigarh. While the city’s infrastructure and roads receive positive remarks, it is the people and certain city challenges that stand out as significant drawbacks.
Chandigarh: A Basis of Expectation
Like many others, I had high expectations for Chandigarh after hearing positive accounts from friends and family. My journey here, however, has been a bit of a letdown. The small cramped houses in the city severely limit privacy and comfort, with no distinction between one house and the next, often resulting in the absence of windows.
The restaurant scene is another area that falls short of expectations. Dine-in setups are far from ideal, and the food prices are exorbitant, especially for the quality and variety offered. Another culinary disappointment is the biryani, which is overwhelmingly expensive but underwhelming in taste and variety. This highlights the potential for improvement in the city’s culinary offerings.
City People and Culture
Living in Chandigarh has offered a unique window into the city’s inhabitants, and my observations reveal mixed sentiments. Punjabis, in particular, have adapted Western trends, affecting their interaction with local culture. Many prefer to be labeled as "Westernized," often losing sight of traditional values and practices. This cultural shift is more pronounced among younger generations, who might prioritize convenience and materialism over local heritage.
Problems of social behavior are also evident. The phrase, "Tu jaanta nahin main kaun hoon," captures a sense of indifference and the lack of personal responsibility that is unfortunately common. This can be a barrier to community development and engagement. Moreover, the city's population is often perceived as spoiled and overly indulgent, particularly when compared to other densely populated areas like Delhi. The roots of this perception can be found in the unique governance structure of Chandigarh, being divided among two states and the central government, leading to a culture of entitlement and dependency on public services.
Urban Challenges in Chandigarh
Chandigarh, a city designed by modern giants like Le Corbusier, now faces several serious urban challenges. One of the most apparent is the accumulation of waste and the proliferation of street vendors. Elante Mall, once a beacon of hope for the city and its tourists, has transformed into a dumping ground for street vendors. The garbage crisis is massive, with vendors throwing waste into gutters and attracting a significant number of child beggars. The management and local administration seem incapable of addressing these issues effectively.
Uncontrolled Urbanization
Autofix service vans, which charge at will, and an increasing number of autorickshaws are other critical issues. Students often abandon their studies after the 12th or 10th grade to seek earnings through autorickshaw driving, setting up a burgeoning and often unlicensed service. This trend highlights the economic pressures and the city's lack of effective regulatory control. Beyond this, private school-van operators operate without oversight, filling their vans well beyond their capacity, posing significant risks to children's safety.
Political and Developmental Focality
The administration's focus in Chandigarh seems to be skewed. While there has been significant investment in infrastructure projects such as the underground subway, over-road bridges, and monorail, these do little to address the everyday issues faced by citizens. For instance, the city's roads remain in dire need of maintenance, with some of the worst roads found right in front of the Traffic Police Lines. Clearly, the administration’s priorities need re-evaluation to better understand and address the pressing needs of the common people.
Conclusion
Chandigarh, as a planned city, has many things to offer, such as its well-designed roads and infrastructure. However, the challenges and criticisms raised in this piece underscore the need for a more holistic approach to city governance and development. Addressing these issues would not only improve the quality of life for residents but also ensure the long-term sustainability and success of the city.