The act of crossing a road in other parts of the world may be quite simple, but it can be quite a harrowing experience in Busy Bangalore. It can also provide one with some deep insights, as I realised a few weekends ago. I was the pedestrian, merely trying to get across the road outside my home to buy some groceries.
Pedestrians here seem to be perceived as a nuisance for motorists, especially by those on two-wheels. The riders always appear to be hurrying to catch a train or a flight, or perhaps to even perform some urgent life-saving activity. Whatever be their exigency, my modest walk to the supermarket always ranks lower in importance.
One can explore multiple ways in which to cross the road. Running across solo at Usain Bolt speed may provide instant gratification, but the risks are too high. One could also buddy up with more skilled road crossers, always positioning oneself so that the incoming vehicular missiles are likely to strike the buddies first.
I normally test the waters by putting one foot forward on the road and immediately withdrawing it. Sometime that litmus test is followed by a zooming biker near-missing me and calling me names which are unparliamentary. But if after the test, an uneasy sense of calm prevails that no harm has as yet occurred to me, I proceed with the adventure.
Despite these preparations, a motorbike happened to bump into me while I was committing the crime of crossing the road on that eventful day. There was no major injury, only a small scratch on my leg. Unlike my previous experiences, the biker was extremely courteous and apologetic. He offered to take me to a doctor if required, while I assured him it was nothing major. We shook hands and he was about to take off again, but I couldn't resist asking him why he was riding so fast.
"I am late to get to work, Sir", he responded.
When I enquired what kind of work he does, he replied confidently, "I am a driving school instructor".
The irony escaped him, just as fast as he disappeared into the snarling traffic. And after that incident, I crossed over to online grocery purchases, where I only have to deal with internet traffic.
July 2023
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