What metaphor does the author use to describe the conditions of the ragpickers in Seemapuri?

The author uses the metaphor of “the city of garbage” to describe the conditions of the ragpickers in Seemapuri, illustrating their harsh reality of survival amidst waste and filth. This metaphor emphasizes the pervasive presence of garbage in their daily lives and highlights how their existence is intertwined with the refuse of society. It conveys the notion that, despite the degradation surrounding them, the ragpickers sift through this garbage in search of valuable items, representing both their struggle for survival and their resilience. Through this metaphor, the author poignantly underscores the stark contrast between the hope of a better life and the grim circumstances faced by those living on the fringes of urban society.