Five years ago, when Mini Varghese, a math teacher at Bhavan’s Rajaji Vidyashram, offered her colleagues Raji R and Rajani Ashok, a ride back home, when their regular autorickshaws failed to turn up, the three decided to have a car pooling arrangement.
The teachers have devised a system that works like a charm for all of them.
They decide on the timings and make necessary adjustments, if necessary. In case, one of them is delayed, a communication is sent out well in time so that the others are not kept waiting. Only one vehicle is involved and the money for fuel is shared. When more cars are available, car pooling on a rotational basis can be adopted, they day
“You may fix an autorickshaw, but they may not turn up when you need them the most. As all of us travel to the same place, this is more convenient,” says Raji M.P. who travels with Mini Varghese.
Many institutions and organisations encourage car pooling. However, most of the groups that get started on a car pooling system abandon it soon.
“Car pooling is not an easy routine to follow. It requires cooperation and coordination from everyone involved,” says Mini, adding, “Car pooling should be adopted only with a group you are comfortable with. It is also better if you keep it strictly professional.”
The teachers agree that this method should be adopted by parents ferrying school children.
This could reduce traffic congestion, especially around school zones.
For the teachers, this is also about having company while travelling to work. “Initially, I drove alone for six months. But now I prefer having someone for company, since I have to drive 25 kilometres every day,” says Mini.
