Safety, trust are as vital as language

When drivers feel supported instead of forced, they are more likely to accept and follow changes. Representation Pic/Nimesh Dave

Every few months, Maharashtra returns to the same debate about the Marathi language. This time, the focus is on the government's proposal that auto and taxi drivers should know basic Marathi. Language is important, no doubt. Expecting drivers to understand basic Marathi makes sense. But this conversation should not stop there; it should also include regular refresher training on traffic rules, road discipline, and driving behaviour.

This is the immediate issue. But it also raises a bigger and more practical question: what should we expect from public transport drivers beyond just language?

Language matters, but it is only one part of the service.

Auto and taxi drivers deal with people every day, office-goers, students, elderly citizens, and tourists. Many passengers are more comfortable speaking Marathi. For them, language is not just about words; it is about comfort and ease.

As Marathi writer Kusumagraj famously observed, language connects people. We see this in everyday situations. But communication alone is not enough. Driving safely, following traffic rules, maintaining lane discipline, not overcharging, and behaving politely are just as important. For most passengers, safety and behaviour matter as much as being understood.

That is why this issue should not be seen only as a language debate.

If drivers are expected to learn basic Marathi, it is equally fair to expect them to follow proper driving rules and behaviour. Both go together - one helps communication, the other builds safety and trust.

Think of an elderly person trying to explain an address in Marathi. That is already difficult. Now imagine if the driver is also driving rashly or ignoring signals. The situation becomes stressful and risky.

On the other hand, a driver who understands basic Marathi and follows traffic rules makes the journey smooth and safe.

It is also important to understand what is being asked. No one expects drivers to become experts in Marathi, just basic words and simple conversations.

The same goes for driving. These are not new rules. They already exist and simply need to be followed consistently. So the real need is not for pressure, but support.

One practical solution is short training sessions during licence renewal or permit approvals. These can cover basic Marathi, simple traffic rules, and expected behaviour, nothing long or complicated.

Today, learning is easier because of technology. Audio-visual lessons, mobile apps, or simple guides can help drivers learn quickly, at their own pace.

The idea should not be to test or punish, but to help.

When drivers feel supported instead of forced, they are more likely to accept and follow these changes.

In the long run, this benefits everyone. Better communication reduces confusion. Better driving reduces conflict. Together, they build trust and improve the travel experience.

It also helps drivers. Good behaviour and clear communication can improve their reputation and even earnings. Seen this way, this is not a burden, it is an improvement.

Across the world, people in public services adapt to local languages and systems. It is part of doing the job well. That is why strong opposition to this idea does not seem convincing.

Because this is not about politics or identity; it is about everyday life.

If driver unions oppose this move or threaten to strike, it may not send the right message. In fact, it could hurt their image. Opposing something as basic as learning a few local words may be seen as an unwillingness to adapt. A smarter approach would be to ask for time, support, and a practical plan to adjust. Turning this into a confrontation will only make matters worse. This is not a fight but a chance to improve service and build trust.

Maharashtra has always welcomed people from everywhere. That will not change. But with that comes a small responsibility, to adjust to the local environment.

Learning a few words of Marathi and following basic driving discipline are simple steps in that direction.

In the end, this is about making daily travel easier, safer, and more comfortable. Sometimes, we overcomplicate simple issues. Expecting clear communication along with responsible driving is not unfair. It is practical and necessary.

At its core, this is about understanding people better and serving them better.

And as we often see, whether it is Prime Minister Narendra Modi speaking in Mumbai or the excitement at Wankhede Stadium, just a few words in Marathi like "Kas Kay Mumbai?" can instantly connect with people and create warmth and energy.

Because language connects, and responsible behaviour strengthens that connection.

Sanjeev Shivadekar is political editor, mid-day. He tweets @SanjeevShivadek
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The views expressed in this column are the individual's and don't represent those of the paper.