6. Set an example!

What is it with the people? Do they know the meaning and value of a zebra crossing or 'jebra' crossing as they are more wont to pronounce?  

Through our forum, we would like to time and again remind the citizens not only of Guwahati city but all across Northeast India and the rest of India that a zebra crossing is an important aspect of road traffic. If we are to call ourselves law-abiding citizens, then we have to follow the rules. Now, there is a catch! When we request you to follow the rules, you are most likely to say, "Why should I follow the traffic rules and stop at the zebra crossing? Look at those people. They are standing their car right on top of the crossing." 

This is where your participation comes into action. If each one of us were to think that we should do (the negative things!) what the other person is doing, imagine the chaos that is bound to follow. In fact, if you look around you, there is utter chaos with the traffic more often than we want because there are very few law-abiding citizens and only a few who are trying to make a difference. The work of setting an example by a law-abiding citizen will be far more tougher if no one learns from it. 

So, next time you are at a zebra crossing, make sure you stand your car behind the white line, above which is written STOP in bold and let the pedestrians cross in peace. Never mind the car honking behind you. It can move only when the light turns green and you start your car. And there you are; an example for the rest of the people around you to give a deeper meaning to a zebra crossing.

Indrajit Kr. Saikia