Bengaluru (Erstwhile Bangalore ): A Retired Person’s Paradise** Until the late 1960s, Bengaluru was truly a retiree’s haven—a city of serene charm, often referred to as the "Garden City" for its lush greenery, sprawling parks, and well-maintained gardens. It was no surprise that many from the armed forces—Army and Air Force—as well as professionals from BEL, BEML, ITI, HMT, and other PSUs, chose to settle here. The city's population was cosmopolitan, sophisticated, and culturally diverse. People from different backgrounds coexisted harmoniously, speaking a mix of languages, including Kannada, Tamil, Hindi, and even English. Remarkably, even private transport drivers were multilingual, making every resident feel at home. Bengaluru was a model of peaceful and inclusive urban living. A simple drive or ride through the city was once a pleasure. But today, the mere thought of commuting to work and back is stressful. Some are fortunate to work remotely for half their workdays—yet, even the weekends seem to be stealthily consumed by professional obligations. Mornings once saw tree-lined roads and pedestrian paths bustling with walkers, while parks were filled with health enthusiasts in the evenings. Weekends brought out well-dressed men and women heading to clubs like Bowring Institute and Bangalore Club for a game of Bridge or Tambola, a beer, or even a dance to unwind. Sports lovers enjoyed badminton, tennis, and squash, adding to the city's vibrant social fabric. In those days, no one complained about issues like sewage overflow, water scarcity, waterlogging, or road rage—concerns now frequently raised, such as by Ms. A.G. Progress and development are vital for advancements in science, health, security, education, and infrastructure, but at what cost? Can’t our planners anticipate and implement development that preserves the city's essence? - Jai Hind!
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