It is my 9th Month in Mumbai. It’s the time of Delivery! I came in November 2010. Since then, I am experiencing huge crowds everywhere. Be it road, train, shopping mall – anywhere. Countless peoples around you can be found in neighborhood –though they are busy doing their ‘things’. On Jan. 26, 2011 Mumbai Local authorities and Railways tried to work on giving some comfort to passengers travelling in Local trains. All slow and fast trains were converted to 12 bogies, from 9 bogies trains, on both Western and Central Lines. But, ever growing population of Mumbai had witnessed no ease on Train crowd. Per cubic meter density in the train remains same. Same story is on Mumbai Roads. Cars are becoming cheaper and average economy of Mumbai increases, so every house owner carries more than one Vehicle. I wish Roads could be made of Rubbers or Elastic, but Roads are made up of Cement and Tar and are limited. It cannot accommodate the ever growing populations of car. The Worli-Hazi Ali road is so populated that sometimes I feel walking on road is better than driving my bike. Having said some burning problems of Mumbai let me try to find some solutions.
Trains: The easiest solution could be increase no. of trains plying on various routes. But when I stand on the Dadar Flyover and watch the running trains, I see no possibility of new trains. Tracks are already overloaded. We must not forget that railway tracks are made up of Iron bars and have a stress limit. They are not immortal. Unless properly maintained and replaced, tracks may develop cracks. Imagine a fully crowded train at 9 AM or 6.30 PM meets an accident, due to track problem. Recently a train accident near Kanpur experienced 80+ deaths, though it was an express train without much crowd. Imagine a Mumbai Local colliding to another Local. I am sure death toll will be more than 500. I think the only solution is Government’s intervention. We may need to categorize all companies and industries in various zones. All zones should be asked to manage their office start and close times. If all office starts working at 9 AM, obviously all trains from 8-9 AM would be over crowded. I think companies should be divided into 5 zones and each should be asked to follow timing like 9 AM – 5.30 PM, 9.30 AM – 6 PM, 10 AM – 6.30 PM, 10:30 AM – 7 PM and 11 AM – 7:30 PM. This will give breather to the employees and workers. The 5th slot can be given to service industries which do business with European and American Companies and customers.
Roads: The best solution would be if all car owners either leave their cars or share their cars with others. 90% of car running on roads have only ONE passenger. The ‘rich’ ones do maintain a driver also. Sharing of Cars can be a solution, but no one wants to lose its privacy. Again I would look towards Maharastra Government. An active government can do miracles – provided it wants to do something. BEST already runs 1000’s of buses on Mumbai roads. It can have additional AC buses running on the roads, for the ELITE class population of Mumbai. An AC bus has a seating capacity of 30 – 36+ standing capacity of another 10 – 16. Means a total of 40+ people can be transported in those buses. One AC bus consumes the space of 4 cars on the road, but can accommodate passengers of 32 cars (I am assuming that 10 peoples share their car). So, one AC bus has a capability of replacing 28 (32 - 4 = 28) cars, from road. If a total of 1000 buses are put on Mumbai roads, plying from every corner – it has a capability to replace 28000 cars from Road (At least during Office Hours). I don’t see a crowded Mumbai, if 28000 cars don’t come on Road. But, Mumbaikar’s are needed to be educated on this. I would further elaborate on the benefits of reducing car. Pollution due to smoke will go down. Pollution quotient of Mumbai will reduce drastically. The air used by Mumbaikar’s to breathe, would be more pure. On economic front, assume a person drives a car for approx. 16 km and back - In total, he drives 30-40 Km a day. Average fuel efficiency of a Car is 12-15 Km/L. So, for 40 Km of drive - Diesel requirement is of Rs 120, or petrol of Rs 180. A travel in AC bus would cost a maximum of Rs 100.
Other option could be the use of Taxi’s. Non AC taxi’s cost Rs 10 per Km, and AC taxi’s cost Rs 16 per Km. Choice is yours! Cost is little high, but can be managed during urgency.
Average Mumbaikar’s can be seen losing weight on Sea shores, parks, gyms and grounds. Thousands of people can be seen collectively jog or run in grounds, in morning and evening. But, those same mumbaikar’s can’t walk 1 Km for shopping! They may jog for hours, but they prefer not to visit mall or multiplexes without Car, even if it is in vicinity! I have a strong feel that we mumbaikar’s are responsible of increasing the crowd and pollution. Our one small step can help in a big way. Unfortunately the initiative is not taken by Government too… The most educated ‘BITS Pilani graduate engineer’ Chief Minister of Maharashtra is not using a single iota of his own brain. Ironically Mumbai is dealt by Delhi. I am sympathetic for common man here. An outsider cannot understand insider’s pain. Thackrey’s who claim to understand the pain, too are busy in doing politics over it.
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Monday, July 25, 2011
Bihar – has the things really developed?
The year 2011 has witnessed my father elevating from a senior science teacher to Principal. Bihar has been a happening state since last 7 years. It started in year 2003 when the monarch of legendary Laloo Prasad Yadav was dethroned. Nitish Kumar emerged as a Leader of Mass – who un-root Laloo Yadav from his very own soil. Both RamVilas Paswan and Laloo Yadav are searching vehemently for one small spark – to attack on Nitish’s ‘Sushaashan’. I did not see something great happening in Bihar – in last 7 years. Only that Law and Order has come to track. Road side romeo’s and hero’s have reduced. Females and girls are safer. Snatching and robbery are at its minimum. But electricity is still a problem. Except Patna – that experiences 24 hours electricity, all other districts suffers Power loss. State transports are not available. It is still under the arms of mafia’s and dabangg’s. Having said all this, I got prompted to write about Bihar – because of two reasons.
1. Recent Land Scam – on the name of Bihar Industrial Development (BIADA): Most of the lands allotted to various ‘personalities’ were turned out to be kin’s of Ministers and close aide of Mr. Nitish Kumar! Is it a real co-incidence or some malpractice done? If it’s a co-incidence, I wish I could become the nephew of Mr. Kumar – and get some acres of Prime Land in Patna. If its favor’s done on account of good governance, this is going to be 1st step towards bad governance. I am closely watching Mr. Kumar’s next steps – Mr. Chief Minister, kindly wake up. Bihar and whole India is looking at you. Kindly do justice. Come out with Flying Colors. Don’t give a chance to your opponents. They are already like hungry Pythons and Cobra’s. Don’t give them a chance to hiss and bite you and Bihar again.
2. School Education Status: As a Principal, my father leads a team of 24 teachers only, and 3000 students. I am not talking of any school in main town. This is the scene of a village neighboring Samastipur, my hometown. When father told me, I was nearly shocked. One teacher per 125 kids is a real jibe, a gag with the future of Bihar. This is the story of one school. There could be many more schools where the ratio could be 1:200. I don’t see education Minister’s intention. On one hand, it announces various lucrative packages for kids to take admission in schools. On the other hand, it is silent over recruiting competent teachers. Papa has put forward an application for 24 more teachers, so that he can run the school in two shifts. The intention is also to reduce the teacher to student ratio by 1:64 so that one teacher can give quality time to each student. Surprising the District Magistrate has replied to him “Kaam Chalaiye na, abhi teachers ka transfer karna thoda mushkil hai” He continues: “Abhi har jagah pe tangi ka maahaul hai, Netaji se sachiv sahib baat kar rahe hain – kuch decision hone se aapko khabar kiya jayega”
Nitish ji, are you reading it? Where is your intellectual thinking? Where is your education Minister? And what does he do? What will happen if you recruit 1 million of Bihari’s for a teacher’s position in Primary and secondary education. Even quality teachers of Primary standard can be promoted as secondary teachers. Hope you will get some understanding, some knowledge – and will help in shaping Bihar and Bihar’s talent. Someone said “Kids are Nations future” – don’t play with the future of Nation. Else they will play in Future with you.
1. Recent Land Scam – on the name of Bihar Industrial Development (BIADA): Most of the lands allotted to various ‘personalities’ were turned out to be kin’s of Ministers and close aide of Mr. Nitish Kumar! Is it a real co-incidence or some malpractice done? If it’s a co-incidence, I wish I could become the nephew of Mr. Kumar – and get some acres of Prime Land in Patna. If its favor’s done on account of good governance, this is going to be 1st step towards bad governance. I am closely watching Mr. Kumar’s next steps – Mr. Chief Minister, kindly wake up. Bihar and whole India is looking at you. Kindly do justice. Come out with Flying Colors. Don’t give a chance to your opponents. They are already like hungry Pythons and Cobra’s. Don’t give them a chance to hiss and bite you and Bihar again.
2. School Education Status: As a Principal, my father leads a team of 24 teachers only, and 3000 students. I am not talking of any school in main town. This is the scene of a village neighboring Samastipur, my hometown. When father told me, I was nearly shocked. One teacher per 125 kids is a real jibe, a gag with the future of Bihar. This is the story of one school. There could be many more schools where the ratio could be 1:200. I don’t see education Minister’s intention. On one hand, it announces various lucrative packages for kids to take admission in schools. On the other hand, it is silent over recruiting competent teachers. Papa has put forward an application for 24 more teachers, so that he can run the school in two shifts. The intention is also to reduce the teacher to student ratio by 1:64 so that one teacher can give quality time to each student. Surprising the District Magistrate has replied to him “Kaam Chalaiye na, abhi teachers ka transfer karna thoda mushkil hai” He continues: “Abhi har jagah pe tangi ka maahaul hai, Netaji se sachiv sahib baat kar rahe hain – kuch decision hone se aapko khabar kiya jayega”
Nitish ji, are you reading it? Where is your intellectual thinking? Where is your education Minister? And what does he do? What will happen if you recruit 1 million of Bihari’s for a teacher’s position in Primary and secondary education. Even quality teachers of Primary standard can be promoted as secondary teachers. Hope you will get some understanding, some knowledge – and will help in shaping Bihar and Bihar’s talent. Someone said “Kids are Nations future” – don’t play with the future of Nation. Else they will play in Future with you.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Mumbai Blasts: Who are responsible…?
July 13, 2011 has witnessed 13th blast at Mumbai in 18 years! Isn’t it little surprising? Thanks to the visionary Dawood Ibrahim, Mumbai witnessed first bomb blast in 1993 and till then he rules on Mumbai, either directly or indirectly. Since then, areas in Mumbai have become hub for testing intensity of Bombs. Mumbaikar’s have become resilient, or may be choice less but to accept the fate. The curious me tried to weed out reasons of Why Mumbai?
The very reason why Mumbai is famous is the reason why Mumbai is most susceptible for such attacks. Mumbai is economic capital of India. If you want to hurt India, if you want to hurt governance, if you want to attack on Indian economy – you have Mumbai. It is one city that does transactions of billions dollar every single day. So, if you want to attack – it’s better to attack on spine. Mumbai is covered with Oceans on three sides. I don’t doubt on the efficiency of Indian Navy, and Indian coast guards, but infiltrations cannot be avoided. Anyone can come anytime by Air or water route. Land route is always a safe haven for anytime incoming and outgoing. One cannot have a metal detector on every road, every street?
I was watching television and someone beautifully said while discussing on blast episodes – It is our problem only. If we cannot send 543 clean people to Indian Parliament, if we cannot choose countable no. of politicians to rule us at center or state – how can we avoid terrorists coming to our land and kill us? All powerful politicians have criminals support and all criminals are sheltered by politicians. So when governance has locked hands with militants, what to expect? And why expect anything from Government? All parties have their criminals and terrorists as pets. Which one to believe?
Well I leave these questions for you to ponder upon and try to analyze involvements in this blast. The inquisitive me, it won’t be nice if I done write anything on such a burning issue. I surprised about the timing and location. First blast in Opera House, Second blast at Kabootarkhana, Dadar and Third Blast at Khaugali, Zhaweri Bazaar – finding integration is little difficult. I don’t find any pattern.
Suspect ONE as obvious would be Terrorists. We normally see what is shown to us; we normally read what is printed for us and listen to what is spoken to us. In short we think what is seeded in us. All government, political chair holders, media, police everyone has pinpointed the allegation and investigation on Indian Mujahhiddin, Lashkar-e-taiba, Pakistan, Afganistan Millitants. It is obvious on many counts. Terrorists have 13th connection. India has witnessed major explosions on 13th and 26th. All these involved those terrorists group taking responsibilities. Surprisingly no one has own the responsibility this time. It is said that the honorary Ajmal Kasab’s birthday is on July 13 – so it was a celebration to wish him Happy Birthday. Dude – dance @ Arthur Road Jail. Someone still misses you!
There have been some international developments recently. Indian government gave a warm gesture of friendly support to Afghanistan. We extend our support on supplying goods and medicines, medical teams for treatment, experts to help in rehabilitation, allowing import – export between two nation and also the peace army to restore the old beautiful Afghanistan. Obviously terrorist agencies working in Afghan territories will be unhappy, so retaliation from them is genuine.
One possibility also links Pakistan territory. Pakistan is on international pressure to curb terrorists and terrorism seeding and growing from their soil. Funding has already been curbed by various nations including USA. Added to the facts are Indian diplomats stern move to round off Pakistanis for provoking terrorism in India. Army (or Militant!) ruled Pakistan want to deviate World’s attention – they have done such things in past, by either bombing inside or outside Pakistan.
Suspect TWO could be opposition parties: I have a reason to believe it. Vilasrao Deshmukh was tainted – he was sent to Central Politics. Ashok Chavhan was tainted – he has been discharged from duties. Prithviraj Chavhan has a clean image and maintains a diplomatic path (under the aegis of Madamji). Everything is running smoothly in Maharastra. So, opposition has nothing to speak for, nothing to attack on and nothing to fight for, in the next election. Obviously National security and Mumbai’s security is of top priority, so if there are blasts in Mumbai – obviously Government is incapable of maintaining internal security. A common man will flow in the wind. If one government is failing to secure them – they grow hope with other government. They are helpless. They cannot do anything. A sheep can’t take care of herself – so the shepherd chooses a Dog to be leader of the sheep gang. Statements within 24 hours of blast by BJP, MNS – gives sufficient proof’s that they are least bothered with pain. BJP wants to make it a national issue. MNS wants non Marathi Maanus to leave Mumbai…! Third front is searching its lost land, so any small opportunity will be a big opportunity for them.
Suspect THREE could be the Ruling Party @ Center. I am citing it at last due to various reasons. No one will suspect UPA might have done this. As I spoke earlier, we think what is seeded in us. When media is in their grip, when channels are in their grip, when defense and security is in their grip – they can manipulate anything. If a blunt attack by Police forces in Ramleela ground, Delhi on June 4, under the direction of Home Ministry, is proved a correct political and national move – Government can do anything and change the direction of thinking.
I have some reasons to believe. Central government is always on axe by opposition parties on issues like corruption, corrupt ministers, being liberal on all issues, be it mercy petition of convicted prisoners, be it issue related to hanging Kasab, be it tax havens money whatever; government has always come on back seat. Recently Supreme Court of India has used hard and accusing words for Government in delaying the process of bringing Indians stashed money from abroad. Government wants a breather. She knows she has been caught from all directions. It wants to divert parties’ attention from local politics to global politics. UPA or for that matter Congress has always been doing it. Congress safely plays with any issue till the time it favors her politically or diplomatically. Once the issue starts back biting Congress, suddenly something else happens and all starts looking at other issues – leaving the current issue behind. Congress gets a breather and everything is put under the carpet.
Let us analyze very critically. The blast happened between 18:30 to 19:30 hrs. This was the time when whole Mumbaikar’s leave for their home. This is the time when whole Mumbaikar comes out from office, and do some shopping / snacks and call it a day. Blast at Kabootarkhana, the circle where 90 % of population either rush for taking train to western/central line or come for shopping at Dadar. Khau Gali – where people are gathered in large no for snacks and other shopping's; Opera House – known for diamond business – is always crowded for trades and transactions. Three bombs got blasted and death toll was only 17. I can’t buy it. It has only two meaning: Either the bomb planted was of low intensity – to ensure minimum damage, or purposely put to ensure maximum casualty and no death. In both cases, one message erupts clearly. Mumbai was vulnerable and Mumbai will remain Vulnerable. Unless system is clean, No one can claim its security. I sometimes question myself – Mumbai has witness 13 blasts - Why not a single MLA / MP / Minister died in either of the blasts. Why only common man suffers all the pain? And when will a common man retaliate? When will a common man go to Parliament or Assembly and blast ONE BOMB to ensure all Ministers die in a single shot? I am a dreamer, and I dream that that day will come! Because that seems, is the only way of waking Office bearers at Higher up.
The very reason why Mumbai is famous is the reason why Mumbai is most susceptible for such attacks. Mumbai is economic capital of India. If you want to hurt India, if you want to hurt governance, if you want to attack on Indian economy – you have Mumbai. It is one city that does transactions of billions dollar every single day. So, if you want to attack – it’s better to attack on spine. Mumbai is covered with Oceans on three sides. I don’t doubt on the efficiency of Indian Navy, and Indian coast guards, but infiltrations cannot be avoided. Anyone can come anytime by Air or water route. Land route is always a safe haven for anytime incoming and outgoing. One cannot have a metal detector on every road, every street?
I was watching television and someone beautifully said while discussing on blast episodes – It is our problem only. If we cannot send 543 clean people to Indian Parliament, if we cannot choose countable no. of politicians to rule us at center or state – how can we avoid terrorists coming to our land and kill us? All powerful politicians have criminals support and all criminals are sheltered by politicians. So when governance has locked hands with militants, what to expect? And why expect anything from Government? All parties have their criminals and terrorists as pets. Which one to believe?
Well I leave these questions for you to ponder upon and try to analyze involvements in this blast. The inquisitive me, it won’t be nice if I done write anything on such a burning issue. I surprised about the timing and location. First blast in Opera House, Second blast at Kabootarkhana, Dadar and Third Blast at Khaugali, Zhaweri Bazaar – finding integration is little difficult. I don’t find any pattern.
Suspect ONE as obvious would be Terrorists. We normally see what is shown to us; we normally read what is printed for us and listen to what is spoken to us. In short we think what is seeded in us. All government, political chair holders, media, police everyone has pinpointed the allegation and investigation on Indian Mujahhiddin, Lashkar-e-taiba, Pakistan, Afganistan Millitants. It is obvious on many counts. Terrorists have 13th connection. India has witnessed major explosions on 13th and 26th. All these involved those terrorists group taking responsibilities. Surprisingly no one has own the responsibility this time. It is said that the honorary Ajmal Kasab’s birthday is on July 13 – so it was a celebration to wish him Happy Birthday. Dude – dance @ Arthur Road Jail. Someone still misses you!
There have been some international developments recently. Indian government gave a warm gesture of friendly support to Afghanistan. We extend our support on supplying goods and medicines, medical teams for treatment, experts to help in rehabilitation, allowing import – export between two nation and also the peace army to restore the old beautiful Afghanistan. Obviously terrorist agencies working in Afghan territories will be unhappy, so retaliation from them is genuine.
One possibility also links Pakistan territory. Pakistan is on international pressure to curb terrorists and terrorism seeding and growing from their soil. Funding has already been curbed by various nations including USA. Added to the facts are Indian diplomats stern move to round off Pakistanis for provoking terrorism in India. Army (or Militant!) ruled Pakistan want to deviate World’s attention – they have done such things in past, by either bombing inside or outside Pakistan.
Suspect TWO could be opposition parties: I have a reason to believe it. Vilasrao Deshmukh was tainted – he was sent to Central Politics. Ashok Chavhan was tainted – he has been discharged from duties. Prithviraj Chavhan has a clean image and maintains a diplomatic path (under the aegis of Madamji). Everything is running smoothly in Maharastra. So, opposition has nothing to speak for, nothing to attack on and nothing to fight for, in the next election. Obviously National security and Mumbai’s security is of top priority, so if there are blasts in Mumbai – obviously Government is incapable of maintaining internal security. A common man will flow in the wind. If one government is failing to secure them – they grow hope with other government. They are helpless. They cannot do anything. A sheep can’t take care of herself – so the shepherd chooses a Dog to be leader of the sheep gang. Statements within 24 hours of blast by BJP, MNS – gives sufficient proof’s that they are least bothered with pain. BJP wants to make it a national issue. MNS wants non Marathi Maanus to leave Mumbai…! Third front is searching its lost land, so any small opportunity will be a big opportunity for them.
Suspect THREE could be the Ruling Party @ Center. I am citing it at last due to various reasons. No one will suspect UPA might have done this. As I spoke earlier, we think what is seeded in us. When media is in their grip, when channels are in their grip, when defense and security is in their grip – they can manipulate anything. If a blunt attack by Police forces in Ramleela ground, Delhi on June 4, under the direction of Home Ministry, is proved a correct political and national move – Government can do anything and change the direction of thinking.
I have some reasons to believe. Central government is always on axe by opposition parties on issues like corruption, corrupt ministers, being liberal on all issues, be it mercy petition of convicted prisoners, be it issue related to hanging Kasab, be it tax havens money whatever; government has always come on back seat. Recently Supreme Court of India has used hard and accusing words for Government in delaying the process of bringing Indians stashed money from abroad. Government wants a breather. She knows she has been caught from all directions. It wants to divert parties’ attention from local politics to global politics. UPA or for that matter Congress has always been doing it. Congress safely plays with any issue till the time it favors her politically or diplomatically. Once the issue starts back biting Congress, suddenly something else happens and all starts looking at other issues – leaving the current issue behind. Congress gets a breather and everything is put under the carpet.
Let us analyze very critically. The blast happened between 18:30 to 19:30 hrs. This was the time when whole Mumbaikar’s leave for their home. This is the time when whole Mumbaikar comes out from office, and do some shopping / snacks and call it a day. Blast at Kabootarkhana, the circle where 90 % of population either rush for taking train to western/central line or come for shopping at Dadar. Khau Gali – where people are gathered in large no for snacks and other shopping's; Opera House – known for diamond business – is always crowded for trades and transactions. Three bombs got blasted and death toll was only 17. I can’t buy it. It has only two meaning: Either the bomb planted was of low intensity – to ensure minimum damage, or purposely put to ensure maximum casualty and no death. In both cases, one message erupts clearly. Mumbai was vulnerable and Mumbai will remain Vulnerable. Unless system is clean, No one can claim its security. I sometimes question myself – Mumbai has witness 13 blasts - Why not a single MLA / MP / Minister died in either of the blasts. Why only common man suffers all the pain? And when will a common man retaliate? When will a common man go to Parliament or Assembly and blast ONE BOMB to ensure all Ministers die in a single shot? I am a dreamer, and I dream that that day will come! Because that seems, is the only way of waking Office bearers at Higher up.
Monday, July 4, 2011
June’25, 2011 - Get-together of All Turning 30…!
School results are out in the month of June, and students run cats and dogs to become a Bachelor! They run from this corner to that corner for admission to either Graduation Colleges, or Technical/Commercial Colleges. 13 years back, students of Kendriya Vidyalaya N E Railway Samastipur too got their School Leaving certificates and were running for shaping their future. 
Some went to Delhi, Some went to Patna, and some decided to shape their career in Samastipur itself. After 13 years, 12 out of 56 students decided to meet at Gaziabad on June 25-26. I wish all 56 kids who started studying together in 5th Standard, would have joined hands together. But, since only 12 decided to make it to come to Delhi, for a memorable time together, I’ll speak of only 12 + 1 people. The additional ONE** is the one who accused me as ‘Disastrous’. I don’t know why!
1. Ranjeet Singh: Ranjeet left us earlier may be before 10th. He is one guy with complex character. But, at the same time, he is the one who writes his own fortune. He is among those, who determine the ways of living life. From a crew member at Air Deccan, to running a chemical factory, and now a small but effective Infrastructure development company – he has marked his signature at every work he has done. Still miles to go, but he knows how to lead life lavishing.
2. Ajeet K Mahapatra: Dr. Mahapatra is awaiting final confirmation from a faculty at IIT Kanpur for him to be awarded a PhD from Delhi University. This budding Scientist is an avid chemistry fan. He wanted to be a doctor in past. Within one month, he shall be fulfilling the dream, with an award of Doctorate in Chemistry. In school, he was popularly known as Kishan Kanhaiya. He still maintains that status quo. Hanging around with girls, or girls hanging around him, is a normal thing and can be witnessed at North Campus. :-P
3. Trinath Prasad: Titti or Bhutta was the nick name given to Trinath, considering his height, compared with average height of the batch. A dedicated follower of Radha Swami ji, Trinath never run after a dream. He lived his life as it came. Got a graduation degree from Samastipur College, then MBA from IGNOU and finally a CA – he went a long way. The best part is the height he gained. With 5’8”+ height, he is certainly not a Bhutta anymore! Can you believe this guy is a hard core vegetarian, not eating even garlic, ginger and Onions! I still wonder how he survived for 5 months at USA!
4. Ranjit Verma: The third member of the DAR group, Ranjit too had a dream of becoming a Doctor – and chased his dream for quite few years. Realizing the truth, Ranjit changed his track and finished graduation and thereafter MBA. Two things didn’t change in him in last 13 years. One, like Ajeet he too has maintained his looks and shapes – Olay guys, come and endorse them for your Ad, and Two, he still has a fascination with Nehru Vihar – the place where he used to stay when he first landed in Delhi. Why Ranjit? Who stays there? :-P
5. Amit Raushan: Popularly known as Michel, he still remains the darling for all of us, as he was during School. Whenever we talk of/about him, we remember and miss Manjari. They were so tagged with each other, sometime we were confused if they are two bodies and one life! Like Trinath, he also didn’t have any fascination with particular career. After finishing his graduation he did his MBA, and now helping HSBC in making Dollars! I rate him an expert in convincing the common public to invest! A very good cook among us, he cooked food for all KVians gathered.
6. Akhilesh Mishra: Son of S D Mishra sir, he carries the same persona and character with him. Only addition is, he has developed some habits that were a complete NO for Mishra Sir. Akhilesh is one guy who has seen the dark days of his life. There were times when even Mishra Sir lost hope that Akhilesh will really do something to make him proud of. But, as it says, after every dark night, colorful morning comes – and brings light and life. So did Akhilesh, by becoming a certified CS. As a Company Secretary, this guy helps running an Infrastructure and Real Estate Company. I wish Akhilesh carries the same charisma Mishra sir was having.
7. Dheeraj Ranjan: Dhajji, is another guy who inherits a lot from his father. Like Sudhanshu Ranjan sir, Dheeraj also sketches and paints well. He is the founder of DAR group, came in competition with MSM detective Agency (Mrinalini, Shweta, Manjari) when we were in 11th Standard. Dhajji too had a dream of becoming a Doctor, but destiny had something else in the Pandora Box. He finally finished with an MBA. He has an avid experience of Real Estate business in Delhi and NCR area. Like all MBA’s, he also plans to start something of his own. I wish he makes me CEO of his company someday!
8. Abhishek Kumar: Lara – this is the name we all gave him, considering his passion for cricket and particularly for his love with the great Brian Lara. For us he was a right handed Lara, when he was playing cricket. In school days, Lara was interested in batting only. Balling and Fielding was something he disliked to do. Like Akhilesh, he too has seen the worst days of his life. At times, he was known to be a budding gunda of Samastipur! The best news I received when I visited his house and get to know that Abhishek has joined VIT for his MBA program. This guy runs Amex Bangalore office on his toes!
“Sun Rubia, tumse pyaar ho gaya, kya karein” – Lare, do you remember this song, from MARD. This song is relevant in many senses. Sumit, Ajeet and some others can shed some light.
9. Mangal Murti: Captain Dr. Mangal Murti, MD., was famous among us as Mangu and Mangal. AFMC guys know him as MaMu. If you want to see someone reading Sanskrit version of Ram Charit Manas with the same ease as Hanuman Chalisa and reciting without opening the holy book, visit him sometimes. He is among those few guys, who fulfilled his dream and remained firm with the decisions he made. He wanted to be a Doctor, and became a Doctor. He serves in Indian Army as Resident Psychiatrist, and helps Soldiers to stay firm with their duties, and helps their family members to keep love and faith with the respective Soldiers. A genuinely Genius among us, he still maintains the art of witty remarks and quick One liners he used to give when we were kids.
10. Rajeev Ranjan: I won’t write much about him, since he came for only few hours. Madhavi was ill, so he was taking good care of his wife. I shall share only one point for him – he was a philosopher and he remains a philosopher.
11. Bhupinder Singh: Bhuppi and Sardar were two nicks given to him, though he didn’t like someone calling him Sardar. If you remember or think of any possible controversy at School, Bhuppi was either directly or indirectly linked with all of them. Bhuppi tried his luck with everyone, be it Rupali, Aparajita, Anjana or Nimisha, Shalini... but alas! He was never too serious with study at any point of time. It was like cutting a cake for him. Live life king-size and enjoy every moment is his moolah for Life. He runs his own business in Ludhiyana, and also works in some government firm.
12. Yours Truly: :-)
After briefly introducing everyone, let me pen down those impetus and memorable moments of June 25 – 26. The intoxicated fever started with late evening. Lara was slated to fly from Bangalore, Mangal to move from Jhansi and Bhuppi to move from Ludhiyana. I was going to land at Delhi airport for the first time, that too in Terminal 3. Unfortunately Lara was landing at T-1. I had no idea of distance between T-1 and T-3. The gap is of approx. 10 Km. Dhajji did all arrangements of our pick-up. Michel’s house at Vaishali, Gaziabad had been chosen as meeting venue.
Lara and I reached Vaishali at 0230 hrs. We met Michel after 13 years. Lara has grown him from many places. I too developed tyres on and around belly. But nothing changed in Michel. He just proportionally grew from every direction. We had a long hour discussion, with sips of ‘Coffee with Lara’ – and we decided to stay awake to receive Mangal at 0600 hrs. Omelets, Corn flakes and Tea was served by ‘Cook’ Michel to all of us. By 1330 all 11 gathered and we decided to have Lunch.
Time was running so fast, and we were racing against time. We wanted to enjoy every moments by staying as close as possible. So we were chalking out every plans of making this meeting memorable one. Everyone was trying to give ‘personal’ time to everyone! Thanks to the power cut in Gaziabad, we finally zeroed on visiting a Shopping Mall nearby. Dilli was full of heat with temperature ranging from 34 – 37oC; we had no choice than to take shelter where free AC is available. Rajeev joined us at the shopping mall.
After roaming around and ‘absorbing lots of Vitamin A in eyes’ till 10 PM, and googling on various hotels for Dinner, we decided to go back to Michel’s house and order something for munching. Ranjeet and Rajeev paid adieus to us. Madhvi was not well, so Rajeev had to go. Ranjeet had some meeting at mid-night! When you own a Honda City and a driver, meeting can happen anytime and anywhere. The Titti sponsored moonlight dinner on the rooftop started at 1 AM, and we 10 engrossed ourselves with a lot of ‘boyish’ talk. We pulled the leg of many among us, and many girls. A lot was discussed on why I am ‘disastrous’ but nothing concrete could come out. We recalled many moments and cherished all of them. All those that were embarrassing at one point of time, were giving a pleasing and sensuous feel when we were hovering our past. Finally we decided to take a nap at 4 AM in morning. Michel, Dheeraj, Lara and I were awake from last 40 hours, though I was taking some 30 minutes of power packed naps in between. Surprisingly, all of us woke up by 9 AM. Don’t know how! Again the ‘cooks’ Michel and Lara were ready with Omelets and Corn Flakes. Mangal loved the evening and night food a lot, so the love converted into loose motion. Addition to it was his allergy with the narcotic smells that were prevalent in rooms. Seems ITC became millionaire in those 48 hours!
Considering the uncalled situations, rice was cooked and 1 Kg of Curd was purchased. We all preferred to eat a simple food comprising Rice, Dal, Aaloo ki bhajiya, and Curd. Did some rest and suddenly sadness cropped up in everyone’s eyes and face. It was a genuine pain of separation. All of us were trying to hide that feeling. Boys don’t cry. So we were trying to keep ourselves busy in stupid things like snapping pics, or collecting and packing cloths or taking rest by forcefully closing eyes. Mangal, Bhupinder and Ajeet left us at around 3 PM. Bhuppi and Mangal’s departure was acceptable as they had to catch their respective trains, I am unable to understand why Ajeet left us. If I am correct, no laboratories are open for conducting experiments on Sunday’s. Well may be some girl friends could be! Finally the cab came to pick me to drop at Airport. I was crying from inside, so was trying to avoid eye contact with anyone. Boys don’t cry you know. So, I shook hands and hugged everyone and sit in the Cab. Asked the driver to move and motioned to friends that keep in touch. I’ll call all of you.
I left Delhi in 2001 as I was selected by IIT, Kanpur. After 10 years, when I got the glimpse of Delhi, I was amazed. The flocks of flyovers, widened roads, modernization of buildings etc. everything was just amazing. I wish I could have stayed longer to experience Delhi also. I was so engrossed with friends, completely forgot that I have to see the new and changed Delhi too. Well, sometimes later… Delhi Wait for me.
Some went to Delhi, Some went to Patna, and some decided to shape their career in Samastipur itself. After 13 years, 12 out of 56 students decided to meet at Gaziabad on June 25-26. I wish all 56 kids who started studying together in 5th Standard, would have joined hands together. But, since only 12 decided to make it to come to Delhi, for a memorable time together, I’ll speak of only 12 + 1 people. The additional ONE** is the one who accused me as ‘Disastrous’. I don’t know why!
1. Ranjeet Singh: Ranjeet left us earlier may be before 10th. He is one guy with complex character. But, at the same time, he is the one who writes his own fortune. He is among those, who determine the ways of living life. From a crew member at Air Deccan, to running a chemical factory, and now a small but effective Infrastructure development company – he has marked his signature at every work he has done. Still miles to go, but he knows how to lead life lavishing.
2. Ajeet K Mahapatra: Dr. Mahapatra is awaiting final confirmation from a faculty at IIT Kanpur for him to be awarded a PhD from Delhi University. This budding Scientist is an avid chemistry fan. He wanted to be a doctor in past. Within one month, he shall be fulfilling the dream, with an award of Doctorate in Chemistry. In school, he was popularly known as Kishan Kanhaiya. He still maintains that status quo. Hanging around with girls, or girls hanging around him, is a normal thing and can be witnessed at North Campus. :-P
3. Trinath Prasad: Titti or Bhutta was the nick name given to Trinath, considering his height, compared with average height of the batch. A dedicated follower of Radha Swami ji, Trinath never run after a dream. He lived his life as it came. Got a graduation degree from Samastipur College, then MBA from IGNOU and finally a CA – he went a long way. The best part is the height he gained. With 5’8”+ height, he is certainly not a Bhutta anymore! Can you believe this guy is a hard core vegetarian, not eating even garlic, ginger and Onions! I still wonder how he survived for 5 months at USA!
4. Ranjit Verma: The third member of the DAR group, Ranjit too had a dream of becoming a Doctor – and chased his dream for quite few years. Realizing the truth, Ranjit changed his track and finished graduation and thereafter MBA. Two things didn’t change in him in last 13 years. One, like Ajeet he too has maintained his looks and shapes – Olay guys, come and endorse them for your Ad, and Two, he still has a fascination with Nehru Vihar – the place where he used to stay when he first landed in Delhi. Why Ranjit? Who stays there? :-P
5. Amit Raushan: Popularly known as Michel, he still remains the darling for all of us, as he was during School. Whenever we talk of/about him, we remember and miss Manjari. They were so tagged with each other, sometime we were confused if they are two bodies and one life! Like Trinath, he also didn’t have any fascination with particular career. After finishing his graduation he did his MBA, and now helping HSBC in making Dollars! I rate him an expert in convincing the common public to invest! A very good cook among us, he cooked food for all KVians gathered.
6. Akhilesh Mishra: Son of S D Mishra sir, he carries the same persona and character with him. Only addition is, he has developed some habits that were a complete NO for Mishra Sir. Akhilesh is one guy who has seen the dark days of his life. There were times when even Mishra Sir lost hope that Akhilesh will really do something to make him proud of. But, as it says, after every dark night, colorful morning comes – and brings light and life. So did Akhilesh, by becoming a certified CS. As a Company Secretary, this guy helps running an Infrastructure and Real Estate Company. I wish Akhilesh carries the same charisma Mishra sir was having.
7. Dheeraj Ranjan: Dhajji, is another guy who inherits a lot from his father. Like Sudhanshu Ranjan sir, Dheeraj also sketches and paints well. He is the founder of DAR group, came in competition with MSM detective Agency (Mrinalini, Shweta, Manjari) when we were in 11th Standard. Dhajji too had a dream of becoming a Doctor, but destiny had something else in the Pandora Box. He finally finished with an MBA. He has an avid experience of Real Estate business in Delhi and NCR area. Like all MBA’s, he also plans to start something of his own. I wish he makes me CEO of his company someday!
8. Abhishek Kumar: Lara – this is the name we all gave him, considering his passion for cricket and particularly for his love with the great Brian Lara. For us he was a right handed Lara, when he was playing cricket. In school days, Lara was interested in batting only. Balling and Fielding was something he disliked to do. Like Akhilesh, he too has seen the worst days of his life. At times, he was known to be a budding gunda of Samastipur! The best news I received when I visited his house and get to know that Abhishek has joined VIT for his MBA program. This guy runs Amex Bangalore office on his toes!
“Sun Rubia, tumse pyaar ho gaya, kya karein” – Lare, do you remember this song, from MARD. This song is relevant in many senses. Sumit, Ajeet and some others can shed some light.
9. Mangal Murti: Captain Dr. Mangal Murti, MD., was famous among us as Mangu and Mangal. AFMC guys know him as MaMu. If you want to see someone reading Sanskrit version of Ram Charit Manas with the same ease as Hanuman Chalisa and reciting without opening the holy book, visit him sometimes. He is among those few guys, who fulfilled his dream and remained firm with the decisions he made. He wanted to be a Doctor, and became a Doctor. He serves in Indian Army as Resident Psychiatrist, and helps Soldiers to stay firm with their duties, and helps their family members to keep love and faith with the respective Soldiers. A genuinely Genius among us, he still maintains the art of witty remarks and quick One liners he used to give when we were kids.
10. Rajeev Ranjan: I won’t write much about him, since he came for only few hours. Madhavi was ill, so he was taking good care of his wife. I shall share only one point for him – he was a philosopher and he remains a philosopher.
11. Bhupinder Singh: Bhuppi and Sardar were two nicks given to him, though he didn’t like someone calling him Sardar. If you remember or think of any possible controversy at School, Bhuppi was either directly or indirectly linked with all of them. Bhuppi tried his luck with everyone, be it Rupali, Aparajita, Anjana or Nimisha, Shalini... but alas! He was never too serious with study at any point of time. It was like cutting a cake for him. Live life king-size and enjoy every moment is his moolah for Life. He runs his own business in Ludhiyana, and also works in some government firm.
12. Yours Truly: :-)
After briefly introducing everyone, let me pen down those impetus and memorable moments of June 25 – 26. The intoxicated fever started with late evening. Lara was slated to fly from Bangalore, Mangal to move from Jhansi and Bhuppi to move from Ludhiyana. I was going to land at Delhi airport for the first time, that too in Terminal 3. Unfortunately Lara was landing at T-1. I had no idea of distance between T-1 and T-3. The gap is of approx. 10 Km. Dhajji did all arrangements of our pick-up. Michel’s house at Vaishali, Gaziabad had been chosen as meeting venue.
Lara and I reached Vaishali at 0230 hrs. We met Michel after 13 years. Lara has grown him from many places. I too developed tyres on and around belly. But nothing changed in Michel. He just proportionally grew from every direction. We had a long hour discussion, with sips of ‘Coffee with Lara’ – and we decided to stay awake to receive Mangal at 0600 hrs. Omelets, Corn flakes and Tea was served by ‘Cook’ Michel to all of us. By 1330 all 11 gathered and we decided to have Lunch.
Time was running so fast, and we were racing against time. We wanted to enjoy every moments by staying as close as possible. So we were chalking out every plans of making this meeting memorable one. Everyone was trying to give ‘personal’ time to everyone! Thanks to the power cut in Gaziabad, we finally zeroed on visiting a Shopping Mall nearby. Dilli was full of heat with temperature ranging from 34 – 37oC; we had no choice than to take shelter where free AC is available. Rajeev joined us at the shopping mall.
After roaming around and ‘absorbing lots of Vitamin A in eyes’ till 10 PM, and googling on various hotels for Dinner, we decided to go back to Michel’s house and order something for munching. Ranjeet and Rajeev paid adieus to us. Madhvi was not well, so Rajeev had to go. Ranjeet had some meeting at mid-night! When you own a Honda City and a driver, meeting can happen anytime and anywhere. The Titti sponsored moonlight dinner on the rooftop started at 1 AM, and we 10 engrossed ourselves with a lot of ‘boyish’ talk. We pulled the leg of many among us, and many girls. A lot was discussed on why I am ‘disastrous’ but nothing concrete could come out. We recalled many moments and cherished all of them. All those that were embarrassing at one point of time, were giving a pleasing and sensuous feel when we were hovering our past. Finally we decided to take a nap at 4 AM in morning. Michel, Dheeraj, Lara and I were awake from last 40 hours, though I was taking some 30 minutes of power packed naps in between. Surprisingly, all of us woke up by 9 AM. Don’t know how! Again the ‘cooks’ Michel and Lara were ready with Omelets and Corn Flakes. Mangal loved the evening and night food a lot, so the love converted into loose motion. Addition to it was his allergy with the narcotic smells that were prevalent in rooms. Seems ITC became millionaire in those 48 hours!
Considering the uncalled situations, rice was cooked and 1 Kg of Curd was purchased. We all preferred to eat a simple food comprising Rice, Dal, Aaloo ki bhajiya, and Curd. Did some rest and suddenly sadness cropped up in everyone’s eyes and face. It was a genuine pain of separation. All of us were trying to hide that feeling. Boys don’t cry. So we were trying to keep ourselves busy in stupid things like snapping pics, or collecting and packing cloths or taking rest by forcefully closing eyes. Mangal, Bhupinder and Ajeet left us at around 3 PM. Bhuppi and Mangal’s departure was acceptable as they had to catch their respective trains, I am unable to understand why Ajeet left us. If I am correct, no laboratories are open for conducting experiments on Sunday’s. Well may be some girl friends could be! Finally the cab came to pick me to drop at Airport. I was crying from inside, so was trying to avoid eye contact with anyone. Boys don’t cry you know. So, I shook hands and hugged everyone and sit in the Cab. Asked the driver to move and motioned to friends that keep in touch. I’ll call all of you.
I left Delhi in 2001 as I was selected by IIT, Kanpur. After 10 years, when I got the glimpse of Delhi, I was amazed. The flocks of flyovers, widened roads, modernization of buildings etc. everything was just amazing. I wish I could have stayed longer to experience Delhi also. I was so engrossed with friends, completely forgot that I have to see the new and changed Delhi too. Well, sometimes later… Delhi Wait for me.
Mumbai to Tarapur: Development on Loot…?
With my present responsibility as BD & OE at Corporate office, and more specifically with JFE activities, I do require visiting most of JSW plants with JFE officials or otherwise. Recent one was a road trip to Tarapur works with Sugino San. As norms, I picked him from Four Seasons and our car speedup for Tarapur. Weather was beautiful, with occasional rains every 15 minutes, was adding colors to the weather. Drive till Dahisar was very comfortable. Suddenly Car started taking brakes, and the average speed broke down from 80 km/h to 20-30 km/h. I realized that flyover was in making, keeping a narrow pathway for vehicles to pass. I was deep in my thoughts, so didn’t paid attention to the slow speed. After 30 min. of slow driving I realized that something is wrong. I focused my attention on the road and the heavy traffic ahead of our car. I commanded driver to break rule and drive car from opposite lane. Since the problem was severe and a big haphazard line of vehicles were on road, the inquisitive mind tried to find a reason of the same. I started focusing on every intricate detail I could collect in mind. I could realize that there were more than 10 flyovers developed by NHAI and IRB between Dahisar and Tarapur.
Two genuine questions came into mind.
Why 10 flyovers at a time, that too on the main road connecting Tarapur and Ratnagiri District from Mumbai?
Government may give the plea that the MIDC area of Tarapur needs to be connected to Mumbai for mutual benefit. Government may have a good intention of minimizing the distance between Mumbai to Tarapur by a whopping 80 minutes, from present 180 minutes, but the question remains why initiating all 10-12 projects at the same time? Why they dig roads at various places? Why the project was not taken one after other? Why people were were left traumatized for hours?
When NHAI is capable of making roads, bridges and Flyovers on difficult tracks, why it has partnered with IRB for this National Highway development project?
The good thinking could be a win-win merger to ensure the best of both companies come forward and deliver the best result in record time. But the speed of work and intentions says the opposite. Road and Flyovers are not complete, and IRB is collecting millions of rupees as Toll. I see the profit interest of business minded IRB and hunger for money by Government employed NHAI engineers. If all are there to loot, who will really take the pain of common man?
The other interesting thing observed on the roadside was Beer and Wine shops common along the road sides, in villages. Government can give their plea that it is for the discretion of common man to drink or not, but the fact of the matter is a poor person waters its money for liquor. The hard earned money could have been used at home, on wife, kids and family – is going into the hands of Mallya and other Liquor Barons. The question again came to my mind: why licenses were distributed to open wine shops in Public and eat poor’s hard earned money?
Suddenly my car stopped at one gateway. It was toll tax gateway. Driver paid Rs 50 and got permission ‘slip’ for continued driving. After some time another toll bridge and the cost were little higher Rs 70! So my curious mind did a simple calculation:
Toll Tax collected by IRB (at 2 places): Rs 50 and Rs 70 i.e. Rs 120 per vehicle.
Assuming 10,000 vehicles in 24 hours, per day (i.e., 7 vehicles in 1 min.) the collection is Rs 12,00,000 per day.
In 365 days, IRB collects Rs 43,80,00,000. i.e. approx 44 crores of Indian rupees per year. If the flyovers take 4 years of completion, common man would have paid Rs 1,75,20,00,000 i.e., 175 crores. A common man pays such a huge amount collectively, and still drives on a painful 60 - 80 Km road.
Another inquisitive question cropped up. If a common man pays 17 crores for one flyover, what amount government pays for infrastructure development? Normally toll taxes are taken for maintenance of roads / bridges / flyovers etc, if it is make with public-private partnership. It is not taken before the construction is complete and open for public use.
Government also invests common man’s money (paid in terms as various taxes) for infrastructure developments. It doesn’t own any money. If that is the case, what is the actual amount a common man pays to live a filthy life for four years!
Two genuine questions came into mind.
Why 10 flyovers at a time, that too on the main road connecting Tarapur and Ratnagiri District from Mumbai?
Government may give the plea that the MIDC area of Tarapur needs to be connected to Mumbai for mutual benefit. Government may have a good intention of minimizing the distance between Mumbai to Tarapur by a whopping 80 minutes, from present 180 minutes, but the question remains why initiating all 10-12 projects at the same time? Why they dig roads at various places? Why the project was not taken one after other? Why people were were left traumatized for hours?
When NHAI is capable of making roads, bridges and Flyovers on difficult tracks, why it has partnered with IRB for this National Highway development project?
The good thinking could be a win-win merger to ensure the best of both companies come forward and deliver the best result in record time. But the speed of work and intentions says the opposite. Road and Flyovers are not complete, and IRB is collecting millions of rupees as Toll. I see the profit interest of business minded IRB and hunger for money by Government employed NHAI engineers. If all are there to loot, who will really take the pain of common man?
The other interesting thing observed on the roadside was Beer and Wine shops common along the road sides, in villages. Government can give their plea that it is for the discretion of common man to drink or not, but the fact of the matter is a poor person waters its money for liquor. The hard earned money could have been used at home, on wife, kids and family – is going into the hands of Mallya and other Liquor Barons. The question again came to my mind: why licenses were distributed to open wine shops in Public and eat poor’s hard earned money?
Suddenly my car stopped at one gateway. It was toll tax gateway. Driver paid Rs 50 and got permission ‘slip’ for continued driving. After some time another toll bridge and the cost were little higher Rs 70! So my curious mind did a simple calculation:
Toll Tax collected by IRB (at 2 places): Rs 50 and Rs 70 i.e. Rs 120 per vehicle.
Assuming 10,000 vehicles in 24 hours, per day (i.e., 7 vehicles in 1 min.) the collection is Rs 12,00,000 per day.
In 365 days, IRB collects Rs 43,80,00,000. i.e. approx 44 crores of Indian rupees per year. If the flyovers take 4 years of completion, common man would have paid Rs 1,75,20,00,000 i.e., 175 crores. A common man pays such a huge amount collectively, and still drives on a painful 60 - 80 Km road.
Another inquisitive question cropped up. If a common man pays 17 crores for one flyover, what amount government pays for infrastructure development? Normally toll taxes are taken for maintenance of roads / bridges / flyovers etc, if it is make with public-private partnership. It is not taken before the construction is complete and open for public use.
Government also invests common man’s money (paid in terms as various taxes) for infrastructure developments. It doesn’t own any money. If that is the case, what is the actual amount a common man pays to live a filthy life for four years!
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