Why Delhi Still Hasn¡¯t Warmed Up To Public Transport To Ease Its Traffic Woes

Delhi¡¯s traffic situation has been much in the news recently. There are many issues concerning the matter - the number of cars plying on the road, the number of two-wheeler versus the car syndrome, the state of public transport, and of course, the fast expansion of the Delhi metro. However, the common fact fuelling the issue is the imposed (rather acquired) health hazard we continue to face. The pollution level in the capital city of India has been rising at an alarming rate, calling for solutions which seem dependable.

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The question we need to consider is why public transport has yet not been accepted as a norm? The recent action by the Delhi government makes us believe that just by reducing the number of cars on the roads, we might have a healthier life. Still, the transfer of transport is not happening as deftly as we expect it to be.

What we have achieved in inheritance

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The idea of using an auto or a bus is considered a matter of status in India. There is no concept of luxury consumption for urban class to enjoy the space, even inside an air-conditioned metro. It is hard to come across cheerful faces in the metro corridors. Unlike the image of public transport in international cities, Indian commuters do not seem courteous. It is not uncommon to come across women or senior citizens having a heated argument to claim their reserved seats.

Perhaps, we are not as strong-willed as an individual in the Mumbai metro.

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However, if we still gather the wits to enjoy and co-relate with our fellow passengers, there is an embedded fear in the minds of young people now. There have been many reported incidents of road accidents and road rage. Not that it did not happen before; but, then when have we been so addicted to reading crime news, with whatever intent we read.

Not that people using their personal vehicles are spared; but yes, the mere feeling of having the steering in your control may just give a feeling of psychological comfort. Also, buses have a notorious reputation, strictly not providing any comfort for travelling in the so-perceived unmonitored situation. Perhaps, we are not as strong-willed as an individual in a Mumbai metro.

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There have been many factors which have led to shift in the mindset of people. The increased use of Delhi metro, or even the recent trend of shuttle service to office, is already helping people park their cars at stations or back in the garage.

However there are still many evident factors which act as a strong hindrance. Consider the fact of last-mile connectivity- this one is particularly applicable to the Delhi metro. While the citizens in the Capital city have taken to the smooth journey offered by the vast network of metro, there are still some teething problems which need to be brought into order. The most common issue is the journey from the metro station to the final point of your destination. It again boils down to the same point. Using a domesticated public convenience like an e-rick at odd hours, or may be no convenience at all. In this case, the metro feeder buses need a major overhaul, so that more and more people can schedule their travelling better using the metro.

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Then, adding to the reckless attitude of the autowallas/taxi drivers in Delhi is their infamous tendency to refuse almost everyone- to go. When you choose to travel a short distance; it is imminent that one ends up burning a hole in his/her pocket. Spare the argument over negotiations for small prices. Night charges are also off the roof, and any kind of emergency situation-you just don¡¯t seem to find the right fixture to cover your distance. It is sometimes just too unreliable-only for some misled perception of the autowalla, really. He, perhaps feel that we are already too hassled for conveyance or just wants to enjoy the short ride, at his own convenience.

Another silent feature which affects the decision of people to use the public transport is their deep-rooted notion; everything public is not precious for me. While the state government keeps on discussing about providing adequate public transport facilities, there is a serious need for calling people to voluntarily use the means. Besides, a combination of all the above-mentioned points, the added nostalgia (definitely not fond) adds to the masala. Remember, the sticky, not-so-well-maintained, racing blue line buses. We know a lot has been achieved since then. Yet, the recall of people rushing to catch the bus, beating the heat and dust, is not a welcome thought anyways. Delhi metro has achieved much more in a short span of time.

The salient

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Delhi government will really need to make a huge effort to get the high strata of society to leave the comforts of their cars. Delhi people are thronged with a feeling of compassion for the society, which more often than not results in unnecessary comparisons, and social pressure. So much so, that people may undergo a car-change like nobody¡¯s business

Add to it the basic amenities- which is a public grievance as it is. Providing buses with bio-toilets, or may be just adding medical facilities in a bus and an auto will just make the journey more dependable. After all we all are prone to unfortunate incidents. Also, it is necessary to have as many tech-enabled facilities in every mode of transport we choose. It will only make the job much easier.