Yet, we also have downers like people spitting and littering the brand new rapid transit system
PIC/ASHISH RAJE
Mumbai’s Metro Aqua Line 3 is now showing booming ridership with commuters using it to travel between Jogeshwari and Cuffe Parade. Cabs and BEST buses have recorded a drop in passengers. There is festive good cheer all around. Yet, we also have downers like people spitting and littering the brand new rapid transit system.
The Maharashtra Metro Rail Corporation (Maha Metro) has banned the carrying of tobacco, cigarettes, lighters, gas cylinders, alcohol, pet animals, and any other flammable materials. Yet, despite these prohibitions, commuters continue to flout the rules, leaving behind unsightly stains of tobacco spit across the stations. Newly built Metro stations are already losing their sheen due to the red marks of tobacco and paan spittle on walls and platforms.
We do not want to witness or have to battle this at any Metro across the city. As commuters, we are quick to criticise and demand better amenities. Some of this is justified, but there is another side of the coin, too. It is up to us to respect those facilities and our city and country. These systems and infrastructure have been made with our funds or taxes, so how can we defile them in this way?
From buildings to roads and transport arms, we do see this paan pain at various places. Announcements and fines may be one way to tackle this. The most powerful though is a change in mindset. Hygiene and cleanliness, discipline, and observation of rules needs a big push in our country. The ‘we-are-like-that-only’ attitude needs to change. Let us ingrain this from childhood and make it a part of our collective DNA.
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