Batool Fatima, who relocated to Bengaluru 25 years ago, shares her perspective on the city’s evolution and the challenges it faces amidst rapid urbanization.
After moving from Hyderabad to Bengaluru in 2000 due to her marriage, Batool Fatima encountered a city that felt like a dream. Known as “India’s Silicon Valley,” Bengaluru was advanced, with expansive roads and lush greenery. However, the subsequent decades have seen significant changes, largely due to the rapid expansion of the IT industry, leading to noticeable urbanization challenges.
Despite these issues, Fatima, who founded a nonprofit organization focused on equitable healthcare and education access, remains committed to addressing Bengaluru’s environmental concerns. She emphasizes the need for community collaboration to prioritize sustainability, particularly in managing the city’s water resources.
Bengaluru has struggled with water scarcity, exacerbated by decreased numbers of lakes and rapid construction of high-rise buildings. Fatima’s own neighborhood faced water rationing due to diminishing borewell supplies, although recent rains have brought some relief. She argues for a concerted effort by residents to value water more highly and advocates for corporate-government partnerships to develop sustainable solutions.
Another aspect of the city’s growth is the economic strain on non-IT workers who face rising living costs due to the influx of wealthier tech employees. This has led to tensions over cultural differences and economic disparities, with some young people leaving school prematurely to support their families financially.
As public infrastructure fails to keep up with the city’s population growth, Fatima expresses concern over Bengaluru’s capacity to support further expansion. She believes in enhancing suburban areas to decongest the city center, allowing Bengaluru to continue thriving as a tech hub without relocating its industries.
Fatima’s commitment to Bengaluru is unwavering. Unlike some who have left due to these urban challenges, she chooses to stay and contribute to solutions, recognizing the city’s essential role in India’s economy and its potential for innovation. Her story reflects a deep-seated belief in the power of community effort and sustainable development.
In the face of urban challenges, Batool Fatima’s dedication to Bengaluru underscores the importance of community-driven solutions and sustainable development to ensure the city’s future.
Source: Businessinsider
