After 25 years in the US, a couple returned to India, hoping to enjoy their golden years. But as friends back in the States ask about life here, a dealbreaker keeps cropping up — the horrendous traffic. With retirements nearing, many US-based NRIs, flush with savings and eager to contribute to India’s economy, are hesitant to return, all because commuting via city roads here can feel like a battle.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), a couple shared their experience, sparking a flood of reactions online, especially at a time when US President Donald Trump has launched an extensive immigration crackdown, with strict policies ranging from H-1B work visas to large-scale ICE raids and deportations.
Indian Traffic: ‘Deal-breaker’ for many
“Wife & I lived in the US for 25 years and returned to India,” A social media user posted on X, adding, “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.” The couple highlighted that despite NRIs having the money to contribute to the Indian economy, the chaotic traffic is a major turn-off. “So many positives here, but you know what the deal breaker for many is? The horrendous Traffic.”
The post concluded by saying, “Just think about it, NRIs with $$ 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. We need to fix it on a war footing.”
The post went viral, and social media users were quick to react. One X user pointed out that gated communities and private townships might offer partial relief, but solving city traffic on a larger scale seems unlikely due to population size, vested interests, and government inaction. “don’t think it’s possible to resolve traffic or improve civil infrastructure of any big city in near future. There are many special interests, big population, lack of resolve from govt.”
Another criticised the post, adding, “Why would they want to come back after contributing to FOR SO LONG TO US . Retirement is not great in India in terms of infrastructure. Traffic is just one thing . They must have made great friends group etc why leave all that now ???
Other users pointed out that while India struggles with traffic, its standard of living is still attractive for retirees compared to some US cities where basic services can be expensive. “India can handle population, climate, pollution, politics, but still struggles with lanes and signals. The day we fix the roads, we fix half the country.”
Broader context: US immigration crackdown
Interestingly, the discussion around NRIs on social media has increased with recent US immigration policies. Trump’s 2025 immigration crackdown has introduced stricter rules on legal and undocumented migration, revoking programs, limiting asylum, and capping refugee admissions.
(This story is based on a post shared by a social media user. The details, opinions, and statements quoted herein belong solely to the original poster and do not reflect the views of Financialexpress.com. We have not independently verified the claims.)
