Ujjain: Violations of traffic rules and regulations have become a common sight these days as people enjoy breaching the rules blatantly and wilfully. Though, we find traffic cops at every signal directing, controlling and educating riders and chauffeurs yet chaos prevails. The administration often comes up with very innovative and unique initiatives to sensitise masses however it largely fails to make a cut among them. Of late, Ujjainites are coming across a pleasant and refreshing change at different squares of the city where traffic cop, Ashok Gaud manages traffic in a very entertaining and unique way. His dynamic gestures and graceful walks across the junctions have become the talk of the town and drawing attention from all quarters.
Free Press caught up with him this week to explore more about his job and his methodologies of handling traffic affairs. Excerpts from the interview… Your style of managing traffic is attracting a lot of praise. What motivates you to do your job with such perfection and innovativeness? Well, I believe in discharging my duties earnestly and sincerely. I think for me my work is worship and every day I do it diligently. I am of the opinion that if one commits oneself fully and enjoys what he does then innovativeness and devotion comes naturally. The very fact that I have been assigned a job alone makes me feel duty-bound and remaining dutiful to the cause for which I have been entrusted with is what keeps me motivated.
Is it helping you in your objective? Are people more compliant than ever?
Yes! I see a refreshing change in people. Initially, they used to give me cursory glance while passing. However, with the passage of time, they have begun to notice my work. Some of them come and compliment me, too. Some of the alleged violators even confess to their offence and pledge never to commit it again. Probably, they think that I am putting in a lot effort and they realise that they need to comply. Credit goes to them. There is a perception that traffic cops are lax and carefree in
their attitude vis-a-vis in their management of traffic? How do you counter it?
To be very honest, my counterparts are as much devoted as I am to my assignments. We all are collectively trying to work out ways to discipline and streamline traffic arrangements to the best of our abilities. We have to remember that it is collective responsibility of citizens and traffic cops to work together for the continual compliance and adherence to traffic norms. Any incident here and there should be seen in isolation as every system has its own loop holes and all the stake holders have the ability to plug them.
Did you undergo any sort of professional training for this?
No! There has never been any professional training whatsoever. However, I did watch some videos on you tube to train myself. So it was more of a self-training and determination. I am happy that it is paying-off.
Given that you have to work under scorching sun coupled with monstrous pollution levels, do you think traffic cops get a raw deal?
Well, I am under oath and obligation that no matter how tough the situation becomes, we will never do any disservice to our job. It is our honour and dignity and I will never show any laxity or negligence come what may. I would again reiterate that, if you commit and devout yourself to something and see it as part of your duty then it becomes very enjoyable. I also believe that if we take big challenges, we seem to develop corresponding strength to overcome them. So I count my blessings instead of complaining.
Any message for city dwellers?
I would like to appeal to all that please follow the traffic rules religiously. Don’t jump red lights, do wear hamlets and fasten your seat belts when driving. We need your co-operation and support in order to manage traffic. You and we together can create wonders. So please help us streamline the traffic and without causing you any inconvenience.
