‘Third World Ick’: Delhi Man’s Rant On Mumbai Traffic Sparks Debate

Whether it is about the delicious street food or the vibrant nightlife, Delhiites and Mumbaikars often argue about which city is superior. But amid this rivalry, there is one thing they both face – the never-ending traffic jams. This time, the focus is on the financial capital of India, Mumbai. Entrepreneur Bhaumik Gowande’s recent social media post underlined the traffic woes in the city, leading to a discussion in the online community.

Gowande recently shared his experience on X (formerly Twitter), detailing his encounter with Mumbai’s traffic upon leaving the airport premises. In the post, he recounted that despite arriving at the airport at around 7:15, it took nearly one hour for him to move just 600 meters from the airport exit.

“Landing in Mumbai after living in New Delhi & just coming outside Airport gives me the Third World Ick. God this city traffic gives me middle class trauma. Disgusted. I landed at 7.15, I came outside the airport at 8.04. It’s 8.44 & I’m ONLY 600m away from airport,” Gowande wrote.

See the viral post here:

Gowande’s post sparked an online frenzy, igniting a lively debate among the users. Some resonated with his frustration while others shared contrasting perspectives.

One user retorted, “Have you gone outside your gated community in Delhi?”

Another chimed in, “Mumbai needs a lot more flyovers. It’s a nightmare to be driving in Mumbai.”

A person countered with, “You may not find city in best of shape. This city has been under make over since ages but yet it is a city with life. Once you get a habit of mumbai, it’s difficult to leave. You will find life & people much better.”

While another remarked, “Bro talking as if Delhi is some 1st world city.”

Someone quipped, “You have poked the hornet’s nest. At least it has started a conversation. Good job.”

Another user pointed out, “While I don’t like your tone, but the issues you raised are not invalid. Mumbai needs to double up on making travel better.”

An individual shared, “Oh how many times have I been stuck for 1.5 hours exiting Delhi T3 at the huge signal leading to the highway because one of the lanes leading to Gurugram is shut!”

And amidst the Delhi-Mumbai debate, a commenter shifted the focus, saying, “Bruh come to bengaluru U will feel like cattle class Whenever I go to mumbai I feel like business class and to Delhi first class.”

The post has received over 6 lakh views since being posted.

What do you think about the Delhi and Mumbai traffic? Which city would you prefer to live in, if you had to choose between these two?