Why Traffic Congestion Is Preventing NRIs From Retiring in India Despite Economic Benefits

A Non-Resident Indian (NRI) who recently relocated back to India with his spouse has sparked an online discussion about why expatriates hesitate to return to their homeland for retirement. The individual, known as Naresh, emphasized that the overwhelming traffic congestion in Indian cities represents a significant deterrent for his NRI colleagues, despite attractive benefits such as affordable healthcare and proximity to family.

"Wife and I lived in the US for 25 years and returned to India. As we are approaching retirement age, some US friends are asking how life in India really is, as they are debating moving to India for retirement," Naresh shared on the social media platform X.

He continued, "So many positives here, but you know what the deal breaker for many is? The horrendous traffic."

Naresh stressed that addressing the traffic situation should be prioritized as it would facilitate increased financial inflow from NRIs to India's economy.

"Just think about it, NRI's with dollars to contribute to the Indian economy, but not coming back because of our chaotic traffic. There are so many hidden costs to our bad traffic," he explained.

His viral post gained over 720,000 views and generated hundreds of responses, with most users concurring with his assessment of the situation.

One commenter noted, "More than the volume, traffic sense is horrendous," while another responded: "Completely agree. The chaotic traffic and terrible road safety are the single biggest reasons many NRIs hesitate to return permanently."

Some offered alternative perspectives, with one user suggesting: "In few years - I plan to live 4 months in India and 8 in USA. Don't think Traffic matters when you are retired. You are not in a rush to reach somewhere, and you have plenty of time."

Another commenter advised: "Retirement life is good in tier 3/4 cities, not tier1/2 life sir! T3/T4 cities have good life, medical amenities all kinds and better law order and weather too and much better social life!"