Biocon chairperson Kiran Mazumdar Shaw has expressed deep disappointment over Bengaluru's transformation, calling it a 'garbage city' during a recent event. She lamented the city's decline from a 'garden city' to a 'garbage city' and shared her vision for what Bengaluru could have become with proper urban planning.
Shaw's Criticism of Bengaluru's Current State
Speaking at a conference on urban development, Mazumdar Shaw said, 'Bengaluru is a garbage city. It's heartbreaking to see what we have done to this beautiful city.' She pointed to the piles of uncollected waste, clogged drains, and deteriorating infrastructure as evidence of failed governance.
She noted that the city's rapid growth has not been matched by adequate waste management systems. According to her, the city generates over 4,000 tonnes of solid waste daily, but only a fraction is processed scientifically.
Vision for a Better Bengaluru
Mazumdar Shaw outlined her vision for the city, which included decentralized waste processing, mandatory segregation at source, and a robust public transport system. 'We could have had a world-class city with green spaces and efficient services, but we lost the plot,' she said.
She emphasized that the city's lakes, once a hallmark, are now polluted and encroached upon. 'Imagine if we had preserved our lakes and built pedestrian-friendly zones. Bengaluru could have been a model for sustainable urban living,' she added.
Impact on Residents and Economy
The degradation has affected quality of life and business environment. Mazumdar Shaw warned that the city's reputation as India's tech hub is at risk if the mess is not cleaned up. 'Companies will think twice before expanding here if basic amenities are lacking,' she cautioned.
She urged citizens to hold local leaders accountable and demand better waste management. 'It's not just about garbage; it's about our future,' she concluded.
