CodeWithKriti

When we talk about “livability,” we often imagine clean air, safety, and solid public infrastructure. For me, these three aspects form the foundation of a truly livable city — a place where one can breathe freely, feel secure, and move around comfortably. But the reality of Indian cities, especially in the northern region where I’ve spent most of my life, often paints a different picture.

🌧️ Monsoons, Winters, and Daily Struggles

Come monsoon season, the roads in most cities I’ve known are flooded. Dirty water gushes out from overflowing gutters, and commuting becomes a nightmare. In winter, the Air Quality Index (AQI) shoots through the roof, especially in cities like Delhi and Faridabad. The smog is so thick that visibility drops drastically — and with it, the quality of life. Add to this the constant sight of garbage piles by the roadside, and you begin to understand how environmental neglect affects us every day.

🚶‍♀️ Safety: A Distant Dream

As a woman, safety is a huge concern for me. The truth is, I avoid traveling at night — not because I want to, but because I don’t feel safe. And I know I’m not alone. Women’s safety remains a pressing issue in both big cities and smaller ones. Despite promises and policies, the ground reality often leaves us feeling vulnerable.

🎉 What Keeps Us Here

And yet, there’s something about Indian cities that keeps us grounded. The food, the people, and the festivities bring a warmth and vibrancy that’s hard to find elsewhere. Be it street chaat on a chilly evening, or the bright lights of Diwali, our cities are full of life. These cultural elements, along with career and education opportunities, are what make urban India livable — in spite of everything.

🏙️ Tier-1 vs Tier-2 Cities: How Big Is the Gap?

Having lived in a Tier-2 city like Faridabad, I can say that while the infrastructure may lag behind cities like Delhi or Mumbai, the contrast isn’t always drastic — especially when you’re in close proximity to metro areas like NCR. But yes, issues like road quality, public transport, and municipal services do vary, and that affects overall comfort and quality of life.

🔧 What Needs to Change?

If I had the power to fix things, I’d start with grassroot-level issues:

Fixing broken roads

Creating proper drainage systems

Solving waterlogging

These aren’t cosmetic problems — they deeply affect how we live, travel, and stay healthy. We need to go beyond token projects and focus on urban planning that puts people first.

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📝 Final Thoughts

So, are Indian cities livable? The answer is: they can be — if we want them to be. There’s beauty, resilience, and joy in our cities. But we also need honest reflection, stronger policies, and real action to make them places we can proudly call home.