A villager from Berhampore got the opportunity to work abroad as a yellow-collar worker in 2016, aiming for a better salary, lifestyle, and future for his family. Travelling through a contractor, he boarded a flight from Mumbai to the UAE. It was his first time abroad, and he was curious to compare Indian roads vs foreign roads, which he had often heard about but never experienced firsthand.
Upon arrival, the top level of development in the UAE left him speechless. The wider and well-maintained roads, advanced lighting systems, and luxurious cars were a stark contrast to what he had experienced on Indian roads. This comparison between Indian roads vs foreign roads struck him immediately. His first impression of the UAE’s road infrastructure and development was so powerful that he took photos to share with friends and family.
Over time, he grew accustomed to the foreign country’s strict traffic rules, road discipline, and enforcement. He diligently followed the laws, noting how smooth traffic flowed and how orderly everything was compared to the chaotic state of Indian roads. The disparity between Indian roads vs foreign roads became clearer with each passing day.
Returning to India: A Sense of Disappointment
After a year, he returned to India, excited to share his experiences. However, upon reaching his home state’s airport, he felt a stark contrast between the roads in India and the foreign roads he had experienced. The disorganisation, lack of enforcement, and poor road conditions weighed on him. He tried to convince people around him to adopt better driving practices based on what he had learnt abroad, but they were dismissive. Gradually, he too reverted to old habits, accepting the chaotic state of Indian roads.Also Read crossroads
Key Issues with Indian Roads:
- Buildings, vendors, and temporary shops occupy road space.
- Unauthorised parking on footpaths and roads reduces available lanes.
- Temporary and religious structures on roads create blockages.
- Public gatherings, protests, and events are leading to congestion.
- Poor traffic management and overcrowded roads.
- Potholes, uneven surfaces, and poor-quality repairs.
- Frequent obstructions caused by broken-down vehicles.
- Corruption between authorities and encroachers.
Key Issues of Foreign Roads (Developed Countries):
- Well-maintained, smooth, pothole-free roads.
- Efficient Traffic Management Well-placed signals and proper lane discipline.
- Strict Enforcement, Laws are followed strictly, and penalties for violations.
- Pedestrian and Cyclist-Friendly lanes and pathways
- Speed cameras, clear signage, and modern lighting, which improve road safety.
- Consistent and proactive road maintenance
Conclusion:
The villager’s experience highlights the gap between Indian roads and foreign roads in developed countries. The debate of Indian roads vs foreign roads is more than a matter of aesthetics; it reveals systemic issues in infrastructure, traffic management, and enforcement.Also Read : https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/readersblog/thingstotalkabout/can-indias-road-infra-rival-americas-48263/
To bridge the gap, India must address road encroachment, congestion, and inadequate infrastructure. Improvements in law enforcement, education, infrastructure development, and safe driving practices are essential to making Indian roads safer and accident-free.
Drive Safe, Stay Safe!
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