SUMMARY:
Navigating Indian city streets and narrow paths with low hearing and vision can be risky. Traffic is often dense, fast-moving, and chaotic. One helpful strategy is to keep an object—like a bag or a white cane—between you and the traffic. Drivers tend to avoid objects more than they avoid people.
Other Tips:
Walk during non-peak hours.
Avoid high-traffic roads.
Carry a white cane for both safety and visibility.
Walk slowly and deliberately—your companions should understand this.
Leave early to avoid rushing.
DETAILED VERSION
If you've ever walked the streets and alleys of a densely populated Indian city like Mumbai, you’ll know how intense the traffic can be. Rickshaws, motorbikes, and cars often pass alarmingly close. Everyone seems to be in a hurry, and there's a general assumption that the right of way belongs to whoever moves fastest.
For individuals with low hearing and vision, this fast-paced, unpredictable environment poses real danger. In such cases, certain habits can significantly reduce your risk.
Smart Safety Habits:
Use a Physical Buffer
Keep an object like a bag, walking stick, or white cane between yourself and the traffic. Interestingly, drivers tend to avoid hitting objects more instinctively than they avoid hitting people.Avoid Peak Hours
Stay off the roads during rush hours when both vehicular and pedestrian traffic are at their highest.Choose Your Route Wisely
Prefer quieter streets and wider footpaths.Use a White Cane
A white cane not only helps with navigation by detecting obstacles and uneven terrain, but also signals to others that you have low vision—prompting many to give you space.Walk at Your Own Pace
Give yourself time to observe your surroundings and respond. Communicate your walking pace to family or companions so they understand and support your needs.Leave Early
Reducing time pressure helps you stay calm and careful.
These small, thoughtful adjustments can help you navigate the city with greater safety and confidence.
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