Indian Road Sense

Road sense on Indian roads has been a topic of discussion since many years. We find it so amusing that it garners a discussion every time & ridicule it at any given opportunity. But let’s face it. We have been a victim of it at some point or the other. Many attribute it to the increasing population leading to high vehicle density on roads. In 2012, our population was pegged at 1.22 billion. Others believe that the lack of proper patrolling, easy procurement of driving licenses and the all time hurry to reach our destination is to be blamed. Whatever be the reason, there is no denying that Road sense on Indian streets is often completely missing. The consequent chaos is on display for the whole world by way of hundreds of videos on youtube everyday.

If the above theories are to be believed, look at the roads in South Africa, despite a similar history to ours and years of subjugation, lack of freedom and economic instability, their roads are far better than those in India with regards discipline and following of the traffic rules.

May be then the Western / UK drivers can follow rules more easily as the roads are bigger and number of vehicles very few. Perhaps they can do so because they do not have multiple modes of transport (rickshaw, motor bikes et al). Or could it be that their road signage is so good that drivers find it easier to follow rules? In realty though, many Western cities have population densities similar to ours. In the Western world 80% use personal vehicles, this means car densities may be even higher than those seen on Indian roads. Most EU cities are historical and do not always have wide roads. Congestion and traffic jams are common, but one hardly ever hears any honking. And rules are followed by all, including those on bikes, cycles, mobility scooters, buses, truck drivers. 

These changes do not come about overnight. In fact, Britain has one of the toughest driving test which can be taken even by school dropouts, the point is by the time one passes the test, the correct road etiquette is ingrained in to the drivers.

We can easily blame the system, the bad road signage, lack of patrolling and other causes. But human empathy is something which is beyond the system. We are a nation which takes pride in welcoming guests & looking after them, the ultimate form of human compassion. Applying them on roads can make us both improve as a person & society.

1      Never drive on the wrong side of the road – You might reach early, but you  
 are putting others lives in danger along with yours.

.      Let others pass – Blocking the road is the chief cause of traffic jams. Stick to  
 your lane.

3      Take an Initiative – Ever spotted a civilian taking 

     charge when there are no policemen around to clear
 the traffic? You can be that HERO too

       Be a good Samaritan – Calling an Ambulance might
 take just a minute of yours but that minute can save

     a life. SO DO IT. 

Remember driving is a responsibility NOT right.