At times, the traffic flow on Santhome High Road is incessant. During such times, navigating the stretch can be unnerving.
On the wrong side of fifty, my reflexes are stretched when I cross this road during rush hour.
“Terrific,” I congratulate myself when I successfully reach the other side.
In striking contrast, the lithe traffic constable picks his way through the vehicles with considerable ease. He nonchalantly waves motorists to a halt.
It is 11.30 a.m. and the traffic has eased a wee bit. After a long wait, I manage to have a conversation with Sanjeevi, who has been manning this junction for some years.
“This is a VIP route, sir. We cannot afford any holdups or breakdowns. Precisely why we are totally focused on the movement and stay connected with our fellow traffic managers on the wireless. The number of vehicles hitting this stretch is increasing by the day.
The cluster of schools in the vicinity adds to the challenge and keeps us on our toes,” explains Sanjeevi.
On the noise and air pollution, he says, “These are occupational hazards that have to be taken in our stride. After all, this profession gives us our bread and butter and we cannot afford to complain.
Different types of problems crop up every day. You would have read in the newspaper sir, the other day, that my colleague’s timely intervention saved the life of an executive who had collapsed at the wheel. Being public servants we have to sometimes walk that extra mile. It is stressful but satisfying at the end of the day.”
Just then an ambulance driver takes advantage of every small opening to reach the patient within the “golden hour.” A red-beaconed VIP car zips past him and he salutes the occupant. He helps an elderly woman and some children cross the road. He also keeps a check on traffic violators.
Taking a wafer-thin break, he heads to a nearby tea shop for a cuppa. I am amazed at his multi-tasking ability and his ability to stay calm under demanding conditions.
He illustrates the truth — “liking what you do is happiness”.
(T.S.Manohar is a resident of Prof. Sanjeevi Street in Mylapore)
