Metro Blues

Delhi metro has become the heart of the capital and also the third largest metro network in the whole world.And no doubt that it's on the way to the top spot.With so many lines up and running, one might have expected to rush to dial down but it has multiplied.In terms of human density, it is slowly tending towards Mumbai local. The obvious reason is the prevailing awareness about this rail-web all over Delhi. But then with increasing number of daily commuters, it becomes a problem for the elderly and women folk.

Now that the metros have a coach dedicated for women, a part of the problem is solved.In the common compartments special reserved seats are there for the elderly,for women and for the physically handicapped.But then its a sad truth that humble and generous commuters are a rare these days.People do not care to vacate seats for the elderly, for women and for physically challenged people.Even those with are entitled for them.And these deserving people have stopped asking for their right fearing a harsh reaction.

Today while traveling when I noticed a very elderly person standing, rather struggling, in front of a seat reserved for the elderly occupied by a youth in his prime, I felt this anger.Which was not new.But this time I acted upon.


'Sir, that seat is reserved for you.You can very well ask him to vacate it for you. '

'Oh! No worries Son.It's just a matter of 10 minutes.And probably this young generation wants it more than our generation.We can stand for hours, but today's generation can't.'

' I agree to that Sir but then when certain provisions are given by the government for you, you should not wave them off just because you think asking for it would be overdoing it.'

' Son, let them sit.I don't want to disturb anyone.And thanks for asking. '


'Why thank me.Sad that morals are going extinct.That young man should have vacated by himself. '


The young man sitting at that seat probably heard what i said and vacated the seat.But i guess I should have said it loud and at his face.Anyways, that old stallion got the seat.But the thing that moved me today was what he did next.He offered his seat to another elderly person who joined at the next station.Shame on all the youth sitting in that compartment.