20 years ago, our town was small and had an urban character with residents who knew almost everyone. It had only one bank in the entire town. In the past, there were very few individuals who went to the banking hall as it was usually empty due to minimal demand for banking services.
The central market was situated at a small section in the middle of town housing just some shops selling basic requirements. This used to be a very vibrant place where people met daily and interacted while exchanging information.
Changes Start Showing
In the late 1990s, certain changes started emerging slowly. Among the first changes that happened is when there was a fuel station set up right at the heart of the town which served as a stop over for drivers. Following , other notable banks started establishing offices in the heart of the town and therefore gave employment opportunities too. Our developing city thus attracted more people from neighboring towns in search of better life conditions and jobs. From a single bank, the town now boast of over 12 functional banks due to increase in commercial activities.
(Market extending into the street)
The central market also began expanding as more shops opened to meet the demands of the increasing population. Soon, the streets radiating from the market were filled with informal stalls and shades for local women to sell their goods from.
Infrastructure Upgrades Transform the Community
By the early 2000s, there was a plan to upgrade the major road leading through our town. The road was dualized and widened significantly. This triggered many transformations along the route.
(A newly built shopping mall where a residential building used to be)
House owners renovated properties facing the road for commercial use. New residential estates and shopping complexes arose. Hospitals and schools also expanded their facilities to accommodate the growing number of residents.
Traffic, Cost of Living Issues Emerge
As a result, it has now become a business center serving five adjacent towns due to economic activity attracted by these upgrades over twenty years. This rapid growth has unfortunately led to some challenges.
Road congestion has become worse on the main street which is a destination for cars flowing from a wider region by day. Additionally, hotels and fast food joints have sprouted all along the streets, as the town became a busy stopover for travelers and those commuting.
Parking during peak hours is hard to find. The standard of living has also risen dramatically. Today, modern multi-story buildings occupy more space along sections that have been renovated; this has escalated rental fee charges. Meanwhile, it’s only children from low-income families who are still attending public schools because majority cannot afford fees in recently established private schools.
Decline in Basic Infrastructure
Ironically, while visible structures such as roads and buildings have improved, some essential service like water supply and electricity has worsened over time. Just two decades ago, tap water freely flowed on the roads however underground pipes and water tanks have since deteriorated due to lack of maintenance over the years. The same thing can be said of electricity supply. In the early 90s we used to enjoy steady electricity supply, however, dead transformers are what we have everywhere today.
(An abandoned water reservoir)
Today, the water supply system is barely functional. It means that residents must buy water brought by tankers or boreholes, which increases household costs significantly.
Embracing Change for a Sustainable Future
Our town has witness tremendous positive changes over the years, however, rapid transformation has also presented us with new chances. So, as our town is progressing, we need to strategically manage the growth.
Enhancing public transport systems and creating pedestrian infrastructure could ease traffic congestion and pollution. Investments should be made in renewable sources of water while pipelines are repaired accordingly.
There are some of our historical buildings and heritage sites that should be retained even amidst modernization. With careful planning and consideration, we can gain full benefits of development without losing our community spirit. The ongoing metamorphosis of this town indicates how small places can rediscover themselves towards the future.
All attached images are mine.