Mumbai Traffic

Amongst its various virtues, Mumbai has the distinction of having a perpetual traffic jam. Even on the highways. And like most of Mumbai's other issues, this is a self created problem.

Following traffic rules is something that most Mumbaikars are not familiar with. And frankly, why should they. In every single traffic jam, the offenders who flout the rules, get to their destination much faster than those who follow the rules. The fact that they are the ones who cause the traffic jam in the first place is something that neither they nor the traffic police appreciate.

And these offenders are not the usual suspects. Bus, Taxi or Rickshaw drivers. They are the affluent in their expensive cars, either at the wheel or encouraging the driver, whilst they sit with their laptops at the back Many of these persons are well educated and are frequent international travelers. Whilst they are vocal in their criticism of this country, they seem to be blind to the fact that they are part of the problem. When they should have been part of the solution. 

The traffic police are a hard working lot that try and do the best they can, given their limited resources and powers. The fine for breaking a rule is a princely Rs. 100 ($ 2) and most people just pay a bakshis (bribe) of between Rs. 20 and 50 (< $1). And then they complain about the traffic cop being corrupt. How can we, who encourage and actively participate in this corruption, not take responsibility for it. Interestingly, I've never been asked for a bribe by a traffic police in the 20+ years I've been driving in the city. And on checking with several of my friends have never come across anyone where a bribe has been demanded. Its always we who offer it to reduce the money we need to pay for our mistake and the hassle of a visit to the police station. I guess having the ability to pay fines online and on the spot would reduce the corruption.

There is actually an extremely simple way to get rid of  70-80% of the traffic jams and delays. The cost of flouting the rules should be unaffordable. The fines should be made 10x. The erring driver should be made to park his/her vehicle and assist the traffic police for an hour. And repeated offenders should have their licenses confiscated.

The traffic police used these methods for tackling drunken driving and they've been hugely successful. Most people in Mumbai are careful not to drink and drive and on those occasions when they go out, make alternate arrangements like a cab or a driver to get home.

And finally, what exactly am I doing about it. Nothing and everything. Nothing at a macro level, since I don't have the ability, At a micro level, I follow all the rules, even at the cost of being called stupid by many, including my kids. And getting my car hit from behind whilst stopped at a traffic signal early in the morning. But its my hope that some, if not many of you will start with yourselves and who knows. Individually it may not make a difference, But enough individuals will start making a huge difference.

Have a good week ahead !