Say no to traffic on No Driving Day

Their inaugural edition in 2011 saw over 1,000 people giving their private vehicles a miss and opting for alternative transport. This time around, the organisers of No Driving Day, scheduled to take place on January 30, hope for an even better response.

Their inaugural edition in 2011 saw over 1,000 people giving their private vehicles a miss and opting for alternative transport. This time around, the organisers of No Driving Day, scheduled to take place on January 30, hope for an even better response.

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“Last time, it was a Sunday. This time, No Driving Day will fall on a Monday. And though we weren’t expecting people to sign up, several have shown interest in the event,” says Rajan Kaplish, who along with wife Padma, had flagged off the event last year as a part of their organisation, CauseBecause.

Details for the event went viral last week and have already created a buzz online. “This event isn’t only about any city’s traffic situation. It can also be about the environment, or promoting a healthy lifestyle.”

On the day, no marches, rallies or activities are being planned. The organisers just hope that people will pledge their support and then find an alternative mode of transport. Rajan says, “The idea is to inculcate the habit. Many people have never travelled without their private vehicles. Once they know of the options available, they may incorporate it into their lifestyle.” People can also log on to their website and gain more information on the event.

Those unaware of other modes of transport in the city can also get in touch with CauseBecause or Rajan. He says, “Corporates are having car pools that day. But if people need

information on alternative transport in the city, we will help them out too.”

Mumbaikars too seemed eager to be on board. Naveen Thakur, an engineering student, 23, says “The traffic snarls are insane in this city. And I hope such events motivate the authorities to help improve Mumbai’s infrastructure.”