Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Punctuality is often considered a virtue, reflecting respect for time and commitments. However, unforeseen circumstances can disrupt even the best intentions, leading to unavoidable delays. The scenario presented – Ashish and Smita arriving late to college – is a common occurrence, often stemming from a variety of factors. This response will explore a plausible explanation for their tardiness, acknowledging the potential reasons while maintaining a realistic and relatable narrative. The aim is to demonstrate an understanding of everyday challenges and the ability to articulate them effectively.
A Plausible Scenario
Ashish and Smita’s late arrival to college today was a result of an unexpected traffic disruption caused by a minor accident near the main bus terminal. Both students rely on the public bus system for their commute.
The Chain of Events
- The Accident: Around 8:15 AM, a small collision between an auto-rickshaw and a delivery van occurred on the arterial road leading to the bus terminal. While no one was seriously injured, the accident partially blocked the road, creating a significant traffic bottleneck.
- Ashish’s Delay: Ashish, who lives further from the college, boards the bus at the first stop after the terminal. The bus he was scheduled to take was delayed by approximately 20 minutes due to being stuck in the traffic jam. He attempted to use a ride-sharing app, but surge pricing was extremely high due to the increased demand.
- Smita’s Delay: Smita, residing closer to the college, usually walks a portion of her journey from the bus stop. However, the bus she boarded was also delayed by 15 minutes due to the same traffic congestion. She considered taking an alternative route, but it would have involved a longer walk and potentially missing her first class.
- Combined Impact: Both students arrived at college around 9:00 AM, approximately 30-45 minutes late for their first lecture. They immediately proceeded to the administrative office to explain the situation and obtain late arrival slips.
Factors Contributing to the Delay
Several factors contributed to the situation. The city’s increasing vehicular population, coupled with inadequate traffic management infrastructure, often leads to congestion, especially during peak hours. The lack of reliable alternative transportation options for students relying on public transport further exacerbates the problem. Furthermore, the accident, while minor, had a disproportionate impact on the entire transportation network.
Potential Consequences & Mitigation
The students faced the immediate consequence of missing a portion of their first lecture. However, they proactively informed the college authorities, demonstrating responsibility. To mitigate such delays in the future, the city administration could consider:
- Investing in improved traffic management systems, including intelligent traffic signals and real-time traffic monitoring.
- Expanding the public transportation network and increasing the frequency of buses during peak hours.
- Promoting the use of cycling and walking through the development of dedicated infrastructure.
Table: Comparison of Delays
| Student | Distance from Terminal | Bus Delay (minutes) | Alternative Options Considered | Arrival Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ashish | Further | 20 | Ride-sharing (too expensive) | 9:00 AM |
| Smita | Closer | 15 | Alternative route (longer walk) | 9:00 AM |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Ashish and Smita’s lateness was a result of an unfortunate confluence of events – a minor traffic accident and the resulting congestion. This scenario highlights the challenges faced by students relying on public transportation in urban areas. Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach involving improved infrastructure, efficient traffic management, and the promotion of sustainable transportation options. While punctuality remains important, understanding the context behind unavoidable delays is crucial for fostering a fair and supportive learning environment.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.