Driving on Delhi’s streets takes more than simply understanding traffic regulations and operating your car. Near metro stations and bus terminals, you will find many other types of transportation such as buses, auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, pedestrians, cyclists, and two-wheeled vehicles. These congested areas can be difficult for first-time drivers due to pedestrians crossing without warning and vehicles slowing down regularly to allow for the pick-up or drop-off of passengers.
New drivers can develop an understanding of the risks associated with driving in areas of Delhi where there are many metro stations and/or bus stops. These include: developing a clearer picture of what to expect on the road, developing better judgement about the movements of other vehicles and pedestrians, and gaining greater confidence in handling the challenges of driving in a busy city environment.
Why Metro Stations and Bus Stops Require Extra Attention
Metro stations like Rajiv Chowk, Laxmi Nagar, Kashmere Gate and Anand Vihar are typically very busy with pedestrians. At times of high demand for transit (peak hours), people will be walking toward station entrances, crossing streets, or looking for auto rickshaws or buses.
In addition, when a bus pulls up to a bus stop, as well as when people are getting out of the bus and stepping into the street, and as well as when other cars try to pass the bus; each of these events can cause problems for new drivers. As such, it is recommended that novice drivers slow down as they approach any bus stop, and always be ready to stop if needed. Additionally, maintaining a sufficient following distance between you and the car in front of you will allow you more time to react to any sudden movements that may occur in the flow of traffic.
Reduce Speed Near Metro Station Entrances
When you approach a metro station gate, parking lot entry, or pedestrian crosswalk in the city, there are many reasons why you should reduce your speed. For example, people can come out from between parked cars and walk toward a building entrance, unaware that a car is coming toward them.
Drive safely in Delhi traffic by being aware of what is happening around you, not just reacting to events when they occur. Watch the road in front of you, use your mirrors frequently, and obey all traffic signs and posted speed limits. Additionally, do not make quick accelerations or pass other vehicles unless necessary when you are driving in a congested area.
Maintain a Safe Distance From Buses and Auto-Rickshaws
When a bus slows down to pick up passengers, and an auto rickshaw or e-rickshaw slows down when approaching a metro station, always leave yourself enough room to react in case the vehicle directly in front of you applies the brakes quickly.
Do not try to move through a small space between a moving bus and the sidewalk. Also, large vehicles may block your view of pedestrians and smaller vehicles. When you are ready to proceed, wait until the road in front of you is open. Change lanes only when it is safe to do so and when you have permission.
Watch for Pedestrians and Unexpected Crossings
When driving around public transit, you need to be very careful about pedestrian safety. Pedestrians will often step out into traffic from behind parked cars or walk towards a bus while not looking at oncoming traffic.
As with other types of intersections, approach zebra crossings cautiously and allow pedestrians to cross when required by law. Please be aware of young children, older adults, and those carrying baggage. Do not engage in any activity that could distract you from driving, especially using your cell phone. Always have both hands on the steering wheel so you can react quickly if needed.
Avoid Illegal Stopping Near Bus Stops
Stop by a bus stop when you are dropping off passengers or waiting for someone and you will most likely cause a traffic jam and possibly put yourself in danger. Please use designated pick-up and drop-off zones whenever possible. Additionally, please do not use the bus lane, cross walks, pedestrian cross walks, and/or entrance to stations.
When planning on picking up a passenger at a metro station, decide on where to meet prior to arriving at the station. Deciding ahead of time will help you avoid last-minute lane changes, honking for no reason, and congestion along the side of the road.
Practise Defensive Driving in Delhi Traffic
Defensive driving is about being aware of what other drivers/road users are doing, so you can give yourself time to react if necessary. For example, when driving near bus stops or metro stations; check your mirrors prior to changing lanes, signal early, drive at a reasonable pace, and avoid being too aggressive.
Learners will need to practice controlled braking, steering control, and their ability to watch out for obstacles with the help of a certified driving teacher. These skills are particularly helpful while driving on crowded streets in East Delhi, as well as many of the other highly populated areas of the nation’s capital.
Learn Urban Driving Skills With On Road Motor Driving School
Confidence in driving requires on-going practice, time, and an awareness of road safety. Beginners can become prepared for the daily challenges of driving by learning how to interact with other drivers (such as those of cars, trucks, motorcycles, etc.), pedestrians, buses, auto rickshaws and busy intersections.
On Road Motor Driving School encourages students to form good, responsible driving habits and enhance their knowledge of what happens in the world of actual traffic. Students will be more capable of successfully negotiating the congested roadways of Delhi if they practice defensive driving and obey all traffic laws.
Safe driving starts with awareness, patience, and respect for every road user.