Today I was stopped by the traffic cop. He was letting the traffic from the other side pass. And all the riders from my side waited. Soon, his hands waved and we went past him.
What was I thinking then. How would be a day in the life of a traffic constable standing at the cross roads. He’s there – rain or shine. Does his feet tire? What about the dust, smoke from exhaust he inhales while on duty?
I remember how we crib in unison at our workplace when the A/C gives us a shiver or when there’s a break-down of the A/C unit.
Does he get a nod of appreciation from the public or from his boss? What motivates him to do his job an extra bit – Or he goes on doing his job, no matter what.
We the public have a different notion about the traffic cops. One common opinion is this – they just find any opportunity to fine or wait to be bribed. As we ride our vehicles on the road, we are vary of getting stopped by the cop. Will he ask for a thing which we don’t have? Is my pollution certificate in order? What about Insurance? Is it renewed? What if he asks 500 and can I settle for 300?
Life as a Traffic Cop in India
It’s a not a easy job to be out in the sun and smoke. Apart from the duty hours, the work space is a badly organized building. The loo must be stinking, also no place to rest if they are unwell. I have been to few police station and I have seen the haphazard manner in which thing are kept and managed in a Police station.
Give Thanks to the Traffic Cop – Unimaginable!
What if there’s a way to thank him for his unseen work? What would you gift to a traffic cop? I read somewhere that people give gifts to cops on one day of the year. What if we bring such a generosity here? I feel in India right now, we need to build the community feeling – bond with the public servants and public. It could be the cop and the public or a clerk and officials with the public.
What will you choose to gift a traffic cop?
- Roses
- Sunglass to beat the harsh light
- Showpiece for his home
- A coupon to buy cool milk shake and share it with his friends/family
- Feet massage or pedicure at the Spa/salon
- Face mask to protect him from the dust
- Sunscreen
- A/C for his home.
- Ionizer
- A medical check up and medical-insurance
Can you think of Any Cop Who has Impressed You?
In Trivandrum, I have seen one lady traffic cop whose work looks commendable. This lady manages the traffic near to Cosmopolitan Hospital. She’s always seen active, friendly and doing her job with mindfulness – probably a true Ikigai follower.
Anyone reading this blog has any story to share?
DO you know any cop whom you would like to give a small gift?
Flossy Ideas, Meetups and Views 