It’s human tendency to compare things, and so do they with the metro. May it be a commuter in Delhi metro or in some other metro, or an outsider travelling in Delhi Metro. However, the other day when in Jaipur we were coming back home; there was a slight possibility of us getting late if we continued by road, because of the traffic. So I told my friend that why not we just get down here and take the metro hereafter. But her response was too shocking. She literally asked me if I have not traveled in Jaipur Metro before, and I said no. So she said, “Good that you did not, it’s slower than a turtle. Delhi metro nahi hai yeh bhen, iss traffic mai jaldi puch jayenge.” I just got silent.
So you see, that’s how it goes, we compare. And people really do have very high standards fixed in their minds regarding the Delhi Metro. It is no doubt, with a large network spread over the NCR. But what are we doing in return? What image of Delhi Metro are we, as travellers, showing them? The dirty side is the behaviour of those who travel and the theft business one can encounter.
Yes, it’s true. I’ve seen educated youngsters behave like unschooled, ill-mannered ones, throwing wrappers, spilling coke and making much noise in the metro. Young girls and small kids sit nicely in the women compartments, but they really don’t get up even if a pregnant or elderly lady comes and does not get any seat. I mean what’s this behaviour?
Anyway, the Delhi Metro has also got a new business running in it, the business of stealing. I’ve come across news of phones, wallets and other things being stolen. Can people not even sit down and relax for a few minutes after a whole day of work? I don’t think one can, because then their stuff may get stolen within seconds. I really think something should be done… what’s the point of those cameras installed?
People from various cities come to visit Delhi and, they say, travelling in the metro is a must. So it should be kept safe and cleaned – but it’s not just the metro administration’s responsibility to do so, it’s ours as well.
by Jahnavi Puri (Alok Vihar-2; 77038 57552)
