I retired in 1996, after plying trains for 41 years over the WR, including 25 years as motorman. A motorman gets a first hand view of human beings brutally mowed down or attempting suicide in front of the train.

This makes us think about the meaning of life and death.

If any one had to experience sudden death at one's place of work, there would be chaos. The motorman is, however, required to carry on. Sometimes, we wonder who has been knocked down.

It seems strange that in the most solemn moments of his departure, when he should be surrounded by family and loved ones, he is instead lying on the rail tracks, alone with a crowd of commuters helplessly gazing at him.

Denis Khan
Andheri