Tuesday, November 27, 2007

Modes of transport in Bangalore

I got the bike's puncture repaired... Thank God for that. One is rendered immovable without a vehicle in Bangalore. There are 5 modes of transport in this city

a) Bus N Walk
b) Auto
c) Two-wheeler
d) Car
e) Walk

If you happen to be among the majority using the bus- Most of your time goes in WAITING for one. It would be unfortunate if you miss your bus by a few minutes or seconds... coz the next one passing your route will come in another 20-30 minutes.

I said Bus N walk coz you need to walk from the bus stop at least a km to where you are going. Roads are one-ways, your bus stops at the next lane stop. when you ask someone at that bus stop they say 'Nope, that bus stops further down at the next stop'. Therefore, Bus N Walk.

Auto- You need to be as lucky as a man is to be a millionaire as you are to find a good Auto. When you stop an auto to take you to your destination:

a) They shake their heads and drive away
b) They will DEMAND a fare higher than that of the meter (that they are suppose to follow)
c) They will demand extra money to COME BACK or at least to the nearest highway coz in your area, they won't get passengers!
d) If you have a tiny piece of luggage (on your way back from the next town) they demand around ten rupees extra to carry his Highness, your bag!
e) The driver may turn out to be rude and pugnacious
f) If he has no change, your money is his babe (I once paid 30/- for half a km!!- Normal rate is Rs.6/km)

Two-Wheeler- The best for any single person or those with a wife. It’s also best for college kids, working professionals. You can cut through the traffic, get past 2 ft of space.

The disadvantage - There are high chances of an accident, being hospitalized, crippled or die.

Car- Comfort surrounded by traffic. If you have all the time in the world, go by car. If you are in a hurry, a meeting in 15 minutes... forget it... hop on a bike. If you travel long distances > 30 km, good for your back (A bike will break your backbone in a week)

Be ready to struggle for parking and also PAY a min of Rs.10 for even 15 minutes of parking.

Walk- If you are few of the lucky one's to stay within the vicinity of your school, college or work place, you are blessed in Bangalore. Not only do you save time (Waiting for a bus or get an auto) but you save on transport cost. It benefits your health and keeps you in shape.

If anyone plans to work in the city for even a few months - Get your bike! It's worth the pain. Bus and Auto will eat up the time and serenity of your life.

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