Transport: Problems and Solutions English-1 Unit-2

Transport: Problems and Solutions

What do you mean by a prefix? Give a few examples

A prefix is one or more letters added to the beginning of a word to modify its meaning. The prefix itself has a meaning. Look at a few prefixes and words formed with them.

Prefix	Meaning	Words
Trans-	Across, through, to the other side	Transport Transformation Transgender Transliterate Transmission Transaction
Pre-	Before	Pre pone Pre occupied Preposition
Post-	After, later	Postpone Postmortem Postnatal
Nano-	Extremely small	Nano technology Nano second Nano sim
Sub-	Under, below, less than, secondary	Subordinate Subjunior Submarine
Il-	Not	Illegal Illiterate

What are the various problems associated with transport ? Find possible solutions to them.

Transport makes human life comfortable and easy. It saves a lot of time and energy and ensures happy living. But transport also involves problems. Increase in number of vehicles on road causes public inconvenience. We could minimise these inconveniences and problems by finding possible solutions. For this, we should first trace out the problems.

Problems associated with transport

·     Peak hour traffic

·     Traffic jam

·     Slow moving of traffic

·     Air and sound pollution

·    Violation of traffic rules (rash driving, drunken drive, overtaking, over speeding, over  loading)

·     Crammed roads

·     Improper conditions of road

·     Stray cattle and dogs

·     Pedestrians and cyclists

Probable Solutions

·    Due to more and more vehicles, traffic moves slowly on main roads, especially during peak hours. Registration of vehicles needs to be tightened. If a person owns more than one vehicle, he should pay double registration fee likewise.

·    Number of vehicles on roads can also be reduced by using public transport system and by using the car pool method. Employees going to same office can use one car for 5 members taking turns instead of using 5 cars individually. This way, they can reduce traffic on a roads, pollution and fuel which is one of the natural resources.

·    Heavy vehicles that come on streets cause traffic jams. So, they should only be allowed to go through the bypass lanes.

·    Applying various time schedules to schools, colleges and offices would help in balancing the peak hour traffic.

·    There is a need to spread awareness that there should be less or no honking to reduce sound pollution. This should be specifically applied near schools, hospitals and major junctions.

·    Vehicles should be maintained in perfect condition and there should be timely checkup on this. This helps in keeping check to air pollution.

·    Violation of traffic rules is the major problem of all. There would be fewer accidents if traffic rules are strictly observed by all. It should be seen that there shall be no over speeding, over loading, overtaking, rash driving, drunken drive etc. A lot of awareness to public is needed. Penalty system would also work well.

·    Separate lanes for various speed limits would also serve the purpose. That way, everyone follows the same speed in that particular lane and hence there would be no overtaking, honking and rash driving. A separate lane for cyclists and bikers will also be helpful.

·    Installing speed control technology to all motor vehicles would control accidents.

·    Following road safety measures like wearing a helmet, fastening seat belt would help in minimizing the damage and would also save lives.

·   If hawkers and small vendors are allotted a separate area, they will have their earnings without cramming the roads.

·    Road conditions are to be improvised like making patch work whenever needed, solving the drainage problem and proper diversion of rain water that is logged on roads.

·    It should be seen that improper parking would be penalized.

·    Including pedestrian sign to traffic signal lights in small towns just as in cities would enable the pedestrians their time and wouldn't make them a hurdle to traffic.

·    Stray cattle and dogs on roads is a major problem which needs immediate attention. They would better be sent to animal shelters without leaving them unattended.

·    Enforcing strict rules with immediate action along with awareness camps would bring some positive change in the mindset of the people.

Transport by auto rickshaw (Page 27)

1. What solution to these problems is suggested by the writer?

A. The writer suggests privatizing the transport sector. When it is done, there is a scope for providing mini cabs or mini buses in all main areas.

2. What solution was suggested by the Transport Minister?

A. The Transport Minister suggested that the public shall complain to the police when they are harassed.

3. What does the writer think of the Minster's solution?

A. The writer thinks that the minister's solution is not at all a proper one.

4. Is the writer confident that his own solution is a good one?

A. Yes, he is. He suggests that the problem with auto rickshaws can be solved by throwing open the transport sector to the private operators. He says that the results would be positive when profit becomes the motive. He strongly believes that it would lead to courtesy and reasonable fares.

5.The transport minster's proposal is to tackle the problem using legal procedures. How would you classify the writer's proposed solution?

A. The writer's proposed solution is to involve the private sector. In other words, it can be classified under public involvement.

Letter C ( page 27)

1. What solution to these problems is offered by the writer of the letter?

A. The writer suggests that electronic meters be installed by enforcing law. These electronic meters show the distance travelled and the length of waiting time so that correct rate can be charged. He also suggests that there should be surprise checks on autos so that the drivers remain cautious and not trick with the meters.

2. What is the writer's opinion on Transport Minister's solution?

A.The writer says that the transport minister's suggestion of complaining to police on the harassment will not work out. The writer expresses his opinion that the public can complain only if there is a special cell to redress their grievances.

Problems faced by the public from auto rickshaw drivers

Drivers demand flat rates from the commuters. This happens more when the commuter has urgency to reach the destination. Eg: to hospital, railway station etc.

They try to cash any type of situation, like bad weather or extreme weather conditions.
They charge the highest.

Over loading the auto is another common problem. They cram nearly 15 people whereas the seating capacity is just 7.

Having no courtesy for passengers is another problem. The drivers are rude and mean towards them. They don't give any respect and also behave impolitely.

Rash driving and drunken drive make passengers uncomfortable and scary.

Impatience is seen in drivers when passengers request for an additional stop; when passengers take some time to pay the fare or when they bargain the fare.

Sound pollution is made through the blaring music and horn systems. Passengers get embarrassed when some indecent songs play on the audio system.

Problems of auto rickshaw drivers (page 28)

The cost of petrol or fuel decides the charge. They keep rising and so do the charges.

The cost of rental from the auto rickshaw owner is another problem. This is one of the reasons for heavy charges.

There are some job hazards like meeting with an accident, being severely hurt, job insecurity, having improper sleep and irregular diet habits which result in health issues.

Any damages done to the vehicle should be borne by the driver. He has to bear those expenses additionally.

Impolite passengers treat drivers in a rude manner. They expect a lot of respect and comfort for the least they pay.

Some passengers take a lot of time to pay the fare. They start taking money out, after getting down. It consumes the driver's time and also causes inconvenience to other passengers. In addition, the driver has to grease the police's palm for having stopped the auto for too long.

Bargaining happens even after the price is fixed. There are too many demands from passengers to stop the auto every now and then, irrespective of the fixed stops. The traffic police doesn't allow this and the driver has to pay the fine.

Passengers don't give the necessary change. It's a major problem for drivers. They have to be ready with the change.

Possible solutions which would be acceptable for both the commuters and the drivers (page 28)

Using the CNG (Compressed natural gas) would discourage the hike of fuel rates.

Compromising on particular stops can be done on mutual understanding.

The government can take initiative in fixing a fair price, deciding the stops, seating capacity and lowering the fuel prices.

Laws can be enforced that the drivers should produce all the necessary documents like driving license, pollution check, vehicle registration papers etc. It builds confidence in commuters. They can travel without any second thought.

The government and/or other charity organizations can encourage drivers to own an auto by offering loans. It lessens the burden of drivers, leading to minimum fares.


Role play---A meeting on 'improving road safety' (Page 35)

Student A: an official from the Finance Department

Student B: an official from the Transport Department

Student C: an official from the Police Department

Student D: a representative of the Citizen's Welfare Association

A: Hello officers, welcome to the meeting. It is high time we discuss and decide measures to be taken to improve road safety

B: Yes, you are right. The major problem associated with accidents and other problems of transport is the narrow streets. So, we need to widen the streets first.

A: But, that would need more money. Can we cut down the expenses?

D: Why not! We can do that, but not before bringing awareness in public. Ignorance is the root cause of all problems

C: Of course, I agree with that. My idea is to double the traffic police. This will enable us to work productively. We can impose on-the-spot fines too when we have additional force.

B: That would work well, but what will the police do when the intersections are too congested?

C: I find your point there.

B: Yes, that's why I strongly suggest improvising the intersections. Only then can the police work better.

A: How about placing some posters related to road safety in the main centers? That might be enough.

D: I am afraid I differ with your idea. The posters just act like reminders. The public don’t pay as much attention as they pay to the film posters. All we have to do is to educate everyone. Initially in schools and colleges; later in factories and offices.

C: I don't find a point in campaigning in schools. They are minors and they are not eligible to drive anyway.

D: I beg to differ. These are the future citizens. They ought to know the rules and safety measures though they don't drive. They need to have a thorough idea of all these.

A: Yes, they need to know. They will have to follow the rules and safety measures when they cross the roads and when they ride bicycles too.

B: Not only that; when they know the safety measures, they may also warn their parents when they violate traffic rules. I also have another idea in mind. It is important to lay a bypass to divert the heavy vehicles. It decreases traffic on roads.

A: That costs an arm and a leg! (That’s very expensive!) We may not be able to afford that.

B: Don't worry. I will talk to the higher officials and get things done.

A: Fine then, we shall fix it. So, let's plan things. We shall start with bringing awareness in public.

D: Great! After the campaign, we shall place the printed posters at all main centres. It works well.

C: Yes, meanwhile we have to improvise the intersections.

B: Exactly! Later, we need to double the police force.

A: And finally, let's file a petition for a new bypass. Once it gets sanctioned, we can plan and fix other issues.

B, C, D: Certainly!              

Framing questions and answers using 'need for + a noun' and 'need to + a verb' (Page 31 and 36)

1. What does the problem of increasing accidents imply?

There is a need for strict enforcement of traffic rules and regulations.

There is a need to enforce traffic rules and regulations strictly.

2. What does the problem of stray cattle imply?

There is a need for proper education to public regarding that.

There is a need to educate public regarding that.

3. What does the problem of overloaded vehicles suggest?

There is a need for strict enforcement of laws.

There is a need to enforce strict laws.

Or
There is a need for diversion of route for such vehicles.

There is a need to divert route for those vehicles.

4. What does the problem of pedestrians speak of?

There is a need for installation of pedestrian signal in the traffic lights.

There is a need to install pedestrian signal  in the traffic lights.

5. What does the problem of traffic jam indicate?

There is a need for diversion of traffic at identified areas.

There is a need to divert traffic at identified areas.

 6. What does the problem of heavy traffic denote?

There is a need for widening of roads.

There is a need to widen the roads.

Or
There is a need for implementation of engineering remedies.

There is a need to implement engineering remedies.

7. What does the problem of hawkers/ vendors tell of?

There is a need for showing them a proper place to sell.

There is a need to show them a proper place to sell.

Or
There is a need for involvement of law and enforcement of rules.

There is a need to involve law and enforce rules.

8. What does the problem of violation of traffic rules denote?

There is a need for strict enforcement of rules.

There is a need to enforce strict rules.

Or

There is a need for imposement of penalty to the accused.

There is a need to impose penalty to the accused/ violator.

The Sky bus project

The Skybus metro was a prototype suspended railway system invented by Indian technologist B. Rajaram with the Konkan Railway. The structure is constructed in the divider space between road lanes. A 1.6 km test track in Margao, Goa started trials in 2004, but on 25 September, one employee was killed and three injured in an accident when the coaches hit the concrete track pillars. The mishap raised serious concerns about passenger safety. It was believed that critical apparatus like ‘swing arrestor’ and ‘switching apparatus’ would have prevented the mishap. In 2013, the Konkan Railway announced the demolition of the line.

CONSTRUCTION OF SKYBUS

The fixed structure at 8 metres height above road level provides the support and guidance for powered bogies which can run at 100 kmph, with the coach shells suspended below, carry passengers in air conditioned comfort, can follow existing road routes, while existing traffic on roads continue. No special land is required for it. It is aesthetically pleasing and there is no concern of a claustrophobic feeling for road users. Aesthetic, and eco-friendly, the Sky Bus is protected against derailment, toppling or collision – by design as well as by construction, hence is safer than the existing rail based system. At the cost of Rs. 50 Crore per km. in India, the system is noise–free and pollution–free with a capacity to transport 36,000 passengers per hour. With no signaling and having no points and crossings, it is a unique mass-transit system that can be put up within two years in any crowded & congested city. It takes 5 to10 years to build an underground metro and 5 to 7 years to build an elevated metro rail, but it takes only 2 years to build a sky bus.

Sky Bogie

1. Standard two axle bogies can be used in metros for speeds of 100 kmph (but can have higher speeds if required, upto 160 kmph) of standard gauge.

2. Braking – Since the bogie is mounted, 3 levels of braking namely – Regenerative, disc brakes and finally, Emergency mechanical brakes are provide to ensure the safety of commuters.

3. The coaches are air conditioned and fixed with automatic doors.They have audio visual information to assist the passengers.

5. They also have special 4 m. wide sliding doors for quick entry and exit of passengers.

6. Each pair of coaches carries 300 persons and service every one minute or 30 seconds is possible.

Sky Stations

1. Unlike conventional mass transit systems, Sky Bus needs smaller stations about 50 m. long.

2. Stations are available at every 1 km. It is a natural footbridge across the road.

3. Service is available at every 30 seconds or 1 minute, which means virtually no waiting time for passengers.

4. Totally automated without drivers, access control is electronic by prepaid cards being swiped in.

5. Stations act only as an access facility, and not as passenger holding area.

ADVANTAGES OF SKYBUS

Fast transportation

Easy access

Fire protective

Deep penetration

Lowest operational cost

Low capital cost

Fast clearance

Better capacity

Luxury and comfort

Better capacity

Reduces paper usage by communicating electronically

Can be built on existing fly over

No waiting, no traffic jam

No land acquisition problem

Ne demolition

No vandalism

No capsizing

No pollution

No interference with normal traffic

Sky bus vs. existing modes of ground transport (page 38)

·         A sky bus is an improved railway technology, eliminating the problems of derailment, collisions and capsizing.

·         Unlike normal railways, the traverse automatically shifts units between tracks.

·         Conventional railway provides for heavy steel coaches to protect people from derailments and capsizing. So they carry more steel and dead weight instead of people. A rail can carry only 70 persons n 20 m length whereas a sky bus carries 300 persons comfortably.

·         Sky bus uses very light weight coaches and hence carry more people using less dead weight.

·         Sky bus is built in just two years whereas an underground metro takes 5 to 10 years and an elevated metro rail takes 5 to 7 years to be built.

·         Sky bus is economical when compared to other modes of transport. As the capital and maintenance is low, the charges will be low.

·         It also saves time because it uses the pre paid swipe cards instead of manual tickets. Also, the time taken to travel one km is just seconds.

·         It requires no place for a station. For any other transport system, people have to wait; they are pressed and shoved by others.

·         There is no traffic jam due to sky buses. This is the major problem for people travelling by buses.

·         Sky bus is built with a technology that saves lives. There is no scope for derailing, capsizing or collision. Many lives can be saved by using sky bus whereas many lives are lost in road accidents.

Exercise 2—Dangers of Lorries to cyclists (page 40)

1. How can lorry drivers and cyclists understand each other better?

A. Lorry drivers shall look through the window in addition to the rear view mirror. They should understand that these mirrors don’t cover certain angles. Cyclists should understand that a heavy vehicle occupies certain area and that it moves to its left while taking a left turn.

2. What are some of the precautions for cyclists suggested in the video?

A. Cyclists shall not be in a hurry, competing with heavy vehicles.

    They shall not assume that they  have enough room to take a turn just beside the lorry.

    They shall wait for the heavy vehicle to pass.

3. What should cyclists do to avoid being trapped at a turning?

A. Cyclists should avoid taking a left turn until the heavy vehicle completely takes its turn.

D. What is the takeaway message of the video (in four words)?

     Be alert, be alive (or) stay back, stay safe

Minutes of the meeting (Page 41)

Meeting held on 22/08/2017 on 'Improving road safety'

Members participated: Officer, Finance Department

                                     Officer, Transport Depart5ment

                                     Officer, Police Department

                                     Representative, Citizen's Welfare association

Minutes:-

It is discussed that—

1.  A few road safety posters are to be printed and exhibited in main centers.

2. The road intersections be widened.

3. The number of traffic policemen be doubled

4. A road safety training week be held in schools, colleges, factories and offices.

5. There is a need to lay a new bypass.