BENGALURU: A recent social media post by Harsh Goenka, Chairman of RPG Enterprises, has sparked intense discussions about Bengaluru’s transformation. Reflecting on the city’s past, he contrasted its peaceful charm with the chaos of modern urban life, subtly attributing the shift to the rapid expansion of the IT sector.

Goenka reminisced about a time when Bengaluru was a tranquil retreat, perfect for morning strolls in Cubbon Park and leisurely drives. However, he lamented that technological progress had led to relentless traffic and urban stress. His post, referencing Infosys co-founders Narayana Murthy and Nandan Nilekani, quickly became a topic of heated debate.

Some users defended the IT pioneers, crediting them with Bengaluru’s economic prosperity and global recognition. Others argued that haphazard urban development, rather than technological advancement, was responsible for the city’s infrastructural mess. A few critics even accused the IT sector of fueling a real-estate frenzy, prioritizing profit over sustainability.

One user pointed out that every advancement comes at a cost, while another stated that city planners had failed to foresee the impact of unchecked corporate expansion. The conversation highlights the ongoing struggle between modernization and livability.

Bengaluru’s rise as a tech hub has brought unparalleled opportunities, but at the expense of efficient city planning. The question remains: Can the city balance growth with a sustainable future?