As 2024 comes to an end, I read up all my articles of the year to summarise the challenges we face as a colony.
Life in South City 1 is a mix of joys and challenges, with residents striving to create a harmonious neighbourhood despite urban pressures. From navigating traffic chaos to celebrating cultural milestones, here’s a snapshot of what’s shaping the community.
A Daily Struggle with Traffic and Noise
Living in South City 1 has its perks, but if you’re near one of the schools, you know the frustration of drop-off and pick-up hours. Cars clog the narrow roads, driveways get blocked, and the honking feels endless. Add to that the persistent noise of school bells, announcements, and sports events, and it is clear why residents have raised this as a top concern. While schools bring educational opportunities, their impact on traffic and infrastructure strains the community’s patience.
Safety First: Tackling Reckless Driving and Security Concerns
Speed breakers on the Club Road have become an unexpected hero, slowing down vehicles and making roads safer for children, pedestrians, and even properties. These simple solutions show how minor interventions can create a ripple effect, like reducing cut-through traffic and even curbing mobile snatchings. However safety goes beyond roads. Residents worry about privacy with the growing foot traffic near schools, and SCRWA has been vocal about the need for better urban planning to address these concerns.
Waste Management Woes
Garbage disposal has been another sticky point, with overflowing bins and unsightly horticulture waste piling up. SCRWA’s partnership with a new vendor has helped streamline waste collection, but success depends on residents segregating their waste. The dream of a zero-waste neighbourhood hinges on collaboration—an ongoing challenge for a colony of this size.
Infrastructure: The Backbone of Liveability
From pothole-ridden roads to streetlights that barely work, infrastructure is a frequent topic in community WhatsApp groups. A newly inaugurated DHBVN complaint centre has given residents hope for more efficient electricity services, while efforts to repair roads and clean green belts continue. The fire incident in June highlighted the dangers of neglect, prompting renewed calls for regular maintenance and better resource allocation.
While writing this piece, I am reminded of a John Boorman movie “Hope and Glory” that I saw in the late 80’s. It was a comedy set when London was being bombed in World War 2. The Central Avenue of South City 1 almost reminds me of the bombed roads in the movie. Do read the part 2 of this article “Round up 2 – Life in South City 1: Hope and not much of Glory”
