Have you ever wondered what life in metro cities is like? For some people, it’s adventurous, fun, and full of new experiences, but for others, it can be overwhelming.
Long travel journeys, overcrowded streets, high living costs, and the daily rush can take a toll.
With all these issues, many cities add up in India’s stressful city charts.
Which is the Most Stressful City in India?
Ironically, despite being called the city of joy, Kolkata ranks as the most stressful city in India, scoring 6.89 out of 10.
Although Kolkata is famous for Durga Puja, puchka, jhaal muri, its cultural vibes, and literature, the city now faces tension and pressure due to urban lifestyle challenges.
From slow traffic and crowded public transport to increasing safety concerns, Kolkata also ranks among the top 10 most stressful cities in the world.
Why is Kolkata listed as the Most Stressful City in India?
From the cost of living index, the healthcare index, to the crime index, daily life in Kolkata comes with so many stressful factors.
Commute time: An average of 34 minutes 33 seconds to travel just 10 km.
Cost of living index: 19.6, reflecting rising prices for essentials like food, utilities, and transport (excluding rent).
Healthcare index: 60, indicating reasonably good medical facilities.
Crime index: 46, pointing to moderate safety concerns.
Furthermore, dense population, traffic congestion, and increasing everyday expenses add to the stress levels for residents.
How were the Rankings Were Calculated?
Researchers analyzed over 170 major cities worldwide, scoring them based on:
Commute time
Cost of living
Healthcare quality
Crime levels
Annual air pollution
Each factor contributed to a total stress score out of 10, with higher scores indicating more stressful cities. Interestingly, cities in Latin America scored high due to safety concerns, while European and North American cities faced stress mainly from high living costs.
Does Being Ranked as the Most Stressful Affect Kolkata Tourism?
No. Despite being ranked as one of India’s most stressful cities, tourism won’t be affected.
Kolkata has many historic sites such as the Victoria Memorial, Howrah Bridge, and several famous temples.
However, visitors should expect slow commutes, busy streets, and the chaos of urban life while travelling to Kolkata.
