Delhi, February 24, 2012: Dancing in Delhi's streets

Ever since I guided one of our guests across a busy street in our neighborhood, I realize that I may have finally mastered the art of crossing Delhi's chaotic, crazy, dangerous streets. Or I should say, I've mastered the slow-quick dance-like movements that are essential if you are to arrive, let alone safely, on the other side. It is no easy feat, as the pedestrian is on the bottom of the Totem Pole with regard to the right of way on the streets. To make it more difficult, there is no real order or rules that are followed by drivers. There is no regard for traffic lanes, for using turn signals, or even for using the rear view mirror. It's every man (or in this case vehicle) for itself.

My success in mastering this dance is really due to four valuable observations that were essential to my learning:
1) Whenever possible, cross with an Indian, or better yet, a large group of Indians. Now you may think this is cheating, but there is safety in numbers and why not capitalize on the practiced eye and nimble feet of someone who has had a lifetime experience doing this? It's best if you position yourself on the side of the person(s) that is farthest from the oncoming traffic. This way, you not only have a buffer in case of a miscalculation (not that it would necessarily make that much of a difference, but it is all about positive thinking!), but you can carefully mimic the actions and dance steps of the person(s) while keeping an eye on the traffic at the same time.

2) If you can, try and cross in the middle of the street instead of the intersection, especially if it is a divided road with a median in the middle. This allows you to view the traffic coming at you from one direction only, rather than contantly swivelling your head in every direction in an effort to view traffic that may be turning left and right as well as straight, which is a must at an intersection. Remember that they drive on the left side of the road, which further complicates the entire picture.

3) Make sure that you also have the eyes open in the back of your head, as there is always the bicyclist, rickshaw driver or even motorcyclist who is driving on the wrong side of the road.

4) My last onservation is about developing that mindset that is needed to steel your nerves and take chances. If you hesitate too long, you will have missed your opportunity and you will end up waiting for that never to materialize "ideal time to cross".

So, happy dancing in the streets of Delhi!