The Dehradun District Administration’s decision to ban protests and rallies at six crucial intersections of the city is yet another step in the proactive approach being adopted these days. Good management requires such decisiveness in dealing with problems. At the same time, what is necessary first is to identify the problems that go by unnoticed because they have been unconsciously accepted. Take, for instance, the manner in which little children are transported to play school by parents on dangerously driven two-wheelers. Or, minors driving scooters, even motorcycles, without licences, or helmets, very often with two others riding pillion. These are sights visible every day, but nobody actually sees the problem for what it is. Taking action in this regard would ‘disrupt’ so much of the people’s lives that bringing about change would be nigh impossible and hugely resented.
If this phenomenon is identified as a problem and a firm decision taken to deal with it, what would be a feasible solution? First, effective awareness drives that communicate the extent of the danger. Mere lectures in schools are not enough. It would require presentations that would include photos and films of the horrible consequences of such behaviour. Also, regulations should be brought in that nudge firmly and surely, the parents to admit children in neighbourhood schools. School buses and vans should be introduced in larger numbers to pick up and drop the children, as also carpooling encouraged for younger children.
Another invisible is the bad driving habits of people on the roads, which indicate the poor-quality understanding of the rules. In most countries where behaviour on the roads is civilised, one of the most difficult things to obtain is a driving licence. While the procedure in India is being tightened up, the driving test here is almost a formality. It is not just driving skills that need to be tested but also the rules of good driving. Where to overtake, how to overtake, how to take a turn, the right of way, having consideration for others, the focus on safety first, are just some of the rules that need to be inculcated. Once this is done, it is time for strict enforcement. While finding the solutions to habitual offences is primarily the task of government and the administrators, the responsibility of implementing them is that of all sections of society. A good beginning would be made if the ‘fleets’ of high functionaries are seen abiding by the rules – this would inspire the public to do the same.
