Fault in the lines

 Namma Metro has been a big boon for Bengalureans, helping thousands of commuters avoid traffic gridlocks and save time. However, Metro users agree that most of the commuters don't follow the basic etiquette and create problems for fellow travellers.

From not being in a queue to pushing and jostling, there is flouting of rules by some sections of the travellers. Women travellers, especially, do not always have a smooth ride. While some say that they get pushed by male fellow travellers, others say that most men occupy the seats without a care for the women passengers.

Sini, a regular Metro traveller, recollects, "Some men travelling by the Metro clearly need lessons on respecting a lady. Last week, this was quite evident when I was on my way from office to home with two bags. When a passenger alighted, and I was about to sit in that space, one particular person slid into the vacant seat, making space for his friend as well. At the next station, when his friend alighted, I sat in that vacant space. No sooner had I sat down, than this particular person asked me to get up so that another friend of his could sit there. This kind of behaviour only shows the brazen attitude of some men and how they have no idea how to respect a woman."

Thrupti N S, an employee of Wipro, says that it is almost impossible to get space to stand
when travelling in the Metro during peak hours.

"Men and women get pushed around inside the Metro and sometimes it gets uncomfortable when men stand too close. People who get in with big bags make the commute even more uncomfortable," she says.

Elveera A V, a student of New Shores College, says that she finds most of the seats being occupied by men.

"There are very few men who offer their seats to women in spite of announcements being made to offer seats," says Elveera.

The scenario is quite different in other modes of transport in the city. Kailas H, a student, feels that people on the buses are more courteous and forthcoming than those travelling by the Metro trains.
"Most people who manage to get a seat on the Metro wear their earphones and detach themselves from what's happening around. Seats are never voluntarily offered, unless it is asked for," says Kailas.
Kantharaj, a software professional, another regular Metro traveller, agrees that travelling by Metro can be an exasperating experience.

"People never follow the queue system and always push their way into the train. They don't bother if the person in front of them gets hurt or even falls. This is rude and extremely discourteous," he says.