The whole world has come together for the purpose of fighting a War against Terrorism. No nation has been left untouched by the events of terror that started on September 11th 2001 and continued into December 2001. Hitherto unfriendly nations found a common table to sit around and it appears as though the door leading towards the utopic state of the global nation is just opening.

What we forget is that terrorism come is many shapes and sizes, and that when there is a chronic state of terrorism , it becomes a way of life. This is also true of what is happening on the roads of Chennai. Terrorism has become a way of life on the roads and most of us have accepted this state. The road is the battlefield – the terrorists are the drivers – the victim is society. We remain mute and choose to turn a blind eye at the situation – hoping and firmly believing that we ourselves will never fall victim to the terror.

Traffic on Chennai roads is for the strong hearted and those with quick reflexes. The bus that thunders down the lane, the over laden lorry that hurtles around a corner, the car that flies, the auto that perceptually tries to squeeze through narrow gaps, the two-wheeler that weaves through the traffic, the cyclists for whom there are no rules or signals and finally the fish-carts who are king of all they survey ---- these are the weaponsused by the terrorists. The terrorists themselves are normal members of our society, who turn into Mr Hyde once on the road. All the aggression within is brought forth – and then it is a battle for survival.

Numerous are the victims of this terror – death is a common commodity. Death and loss affecting mainly the youth and the prime of society. Doctors, lawyers, engineers, software personnel, graduates, students, teachers – all those who matter, all those who contribute everyday to our community – they are the victims. Indirectly, we all are victims. A unique situation where we are both the terrorist and victim.

MUST WE JUST SIT BACK AND WATCH ?? Must we not also stand up and fight against this terrorism on the roads of Chennai ? Must we also not resolve to stop this unnecessary loss of life and livelihood. Let us resolve toady that each one of us will try and make a difference.

Here are some ways by which each one of us can help fight the war against terrorism
T= Try not to overtake on the left
E= Educate on the use of Helmets and Seat Belts
R= Relax at the Red light
R= Reach for the accelerator only after the green light comes on
O= Outright NO to Alcohol and driving
R= Reduce the speed at which you travel