Yes, my Driving Licence arrived by Speed Post Wednesday evening.
It was a renewal exercise.
Last time, I got my licence renewed 2006.
Once you are past 40 plus, the renewal takes place every five years.
It cost me two hundred fifty rupees to Delhi government transport department and Rs.50 for mandatory medical report (to check colour blindness), plus Rs.50 for Speed Post delivery.
By the by, when was the last time, I sat behind steering?
Can't recollect because I had stopped driving several months ago - particularly after daughter's usurpation of the car(!) as she began to drive down for work.
Secondly, I was becoming a huge practitioner of the infamous 'road rage'. I was losing temper at a faster clip on road, causing discomfort for my spouse.
"You're becoming a ruffian," she chided me several times.
Thirdly, I realised that I was "unnecessarily" taking the car out of parking lot just for the heck of it.
Let me put it this way. I used to drive even if I have no business to be out.
Necessity-driven travel, I found to be the best remedy.
In this process, two goals were achieved. Primarily, my petrol bill has nosedived drastically. Bingo!
Secondly, I became a much quieter person. No road rage!
The Commonwealth Games 2010 and the launch of Delhi Metro changed my movements in the metropolis. I procured a smart card for use in Metros.
And grabbed the Rs.50 green ticket on DTC airconditioned buses that provided unlimited access on a daily basis. Any time, any number of trips.
I plan my outings meticulously these days.
Never agree for any meetings before 12 noon. And step out 2 hours in advance to travel comfortably.
Before boarding any DTC bus, I pick up an Outlook, India Today or Open. Find a seat and read the magazine. Usually I am through with the magazine (at least 80%) by the time the destination is reached.
The unread portion is completed in reverse direction.
I pick up something extra to read (from office or meeting places) to keep me busy on my return trip.
There are days I had wantonly stepped in and out of DTC buses purely to extract the maximum out of Rs.50 facility.
On one particular February day, I hop-skipped 10 buses spread over 6 hours. Pure joy, it was.
It was part of trying to explore unknown Delhi destinations.
ONce you have a Rs.50 ticket, you're a king.
Metro again is a blessing. Another airconditioned comfort.
The biggest advantage: no longer I am the chauffeur of my family!
With my daughter in driver's seat, I enjoy the backseat pleasure.
No plans to give it up.
If so, why did I renew my Driving Licence?, you ask?
Good question.
Because it is handy and shove it into my wallet. And use it is as residential and identity proof when travelling in trains and to gain access into airport lounges.
Who knows, one day I may drive before the present licence expires in 2016.
Five long years away.
Meanwhile, I am saving Planet Earth from global warming in my own way!
How about you?
