Its been almost 6 weeks that I have been living out of India.
I have missed the country tremendously.
I have craved human connection.
Back home everything from the milkman to the bus driver is based on relationships. People smile and make conversations.
However there are some things that we need to learn and better back home
While I agree that citizens role does not end with paying taxes, but that also does not take away the accountability of the Government and other office bearers.
1. City Planning
This is a big one. There are clear norms of what must be part of a community (Council). Roads, Pavement, Parks, Citizens amenities. This is clearly missing. In a city like Bangalore, we just see monstrous buildings, absolutely missing out on green spaces and amenities for the common person.
2. Public Transport
A well laid out network of road transports and underground rail network. It connects all part of the city. There is enough parking available to drop the vehicle off. Public transport is clean and safe (read respectable). Especially as a women, i did not ever feel that it was not a good option. There are cameras everywhere and severe penalty for offenders.
3. Managing Garbage
Even though i feel there is way too much plastic here. The number of bins lining the city is huge. No one can just dump their garbage on the road. The garbage is picked up every week. Every one understand the categories of waste (here i think in separating wet and dry, we are doing much better)
4. Public Toilets
There are relatively clean (not wet / stinky) toilets everywhere. Be it malls, parks or bus stations. These toilets are maintained and cleaned every day. Hence there are no offenders peeing on the road !
5. Following Rules
There is an emphasis on following rules. Even in the absence of any systemic measure, people just fall into line (literally and figuratively). There are penalties for not following road norms (read lane driving, signals etc)
I hope someone in power reads this, makes some of these simple changes.
I want to become prouder of my country.
I dont want to feel apologetic about the way it is being presented today.
I remain very hopeful and optimistic that change is round the corner
Jai Hind
