Men in White Battling with the Gods of Rain

Even before I had reached the city highway, the slow moving and blocked traffic indicated what was in store for us during our ride to work from North West Delhi to Gurgaon, a 40 km drive. We set upon the journey, fighting the strong rainfall and rather arrogant traffic snarls, not realizing the extent to which nature would test our patience. Sitting comfortably in the Maruti SX4 with my friends, we did contemplate to take the day off, and rather head to a coffee shop or a restro-bar, instead of venturing on the unforgiving roads of Delhi. Alas, that was not to happen, and with total dedication we headed towards our workplace in Gurgaon on the morning of 09/09/09.

The benefit of Delhi roads is that there is always more than a few ways of getting from one point to another. The expansive, rather circular city, with well developed road network offers varied options for the journey. There are atleast 5-6 ways that we have experimented with between Gurgaon and Rohini. The challenge on any generic day is to identify which route is more amicable and approachable, enabling a smooth morning ride to work. While road infrastructure is quite advanced relative to other Indian metros, there is actually no information flow indicating which route should be preferred on any given morning (aha! A Business Opportunity. Would you pay for this information??)

Getting back to the dreaded journey, the first point of contention was which route to take. We argued, and then decided to avoid Dwarka underpass, and Naraina flyover construction area, for the underpass flooding and the poor road conditions respectively. So, we tried the Patel Nagar to Dhaula Kuan route. Details aside, we were stuck in traffic on every turn and intersection. Traffic seemed backed up for miles, not giving us the confidence that we would reach anywhere that morning. Nevertheless, we pursued with perseverance to reach our destination, come what may. Similar dedication was observed across the city, where people tried to reach their respective destinations, despite nature’s actions.

Neither nature, nor the roads were cooperating. On one hand we were fighting the rage of the Gods, on the other hand the rage of Delhi municipal authorities, the latter had the upper hand. It is actually surprising how monsoon brings life to a stand still. Year on year, the story repeats itself, with little changing as far as road conditions are concerned. Traffic lights, a technology decades old, also gives way, leading to much chaos, heart burn, and anxiety to escape the confusion.

To my surprise, and to much of my satisfaction, traffic policemen were well placed on every intersection (that we crossed), facilitating traffic flow. Holding back the eager drivers, drenched in rain, with a fatigue look, nevertheless honest to their day’s objective. They were equally determined to make sure we get to our work place. Road rage in Delhi peaks on selective opportunities. Had it not been for the clothed in white, every intersection would have become a nightmare. Coupled with roads and nature, the fellow car drivers would have become the most dreaded protagonist of the day. While we were well settled in our comfortable car, escaping the rain, the traffic police took it upon themselves to make sure Delhi reaches its destination. Some without their boots, others without their caps or gloves, we passed many cops, none appeared complaining or complacent. These white men depicted team spirit and dedication, and allowed us to reach our destination. My salutations to each of them, for ensuring peace and harmony during an otherwise enraged day and irritable drive. Thank You!

So, we did manage to reach our destination, alas in 4 hours post a stop-over at Fast Trax for replenishing our energies.