Lahore: Bus shelters become 'community centres' when it rains

[Naveed Yaseen]

LAHORE: When it rains, bus shelters across the city turn into ‘community centres’, where topics that range from religion to politics are eagerly discussed. Gender discrimination also seems to vanish, as both men and women take shelter under the same shade. Abdullah, a commuter standing under a shelter on Jail Road near Sherpao Bridge, used the time to inform his fellows of the country’s political scenario. He seemed unhappy with the politicians, but was excited about President Pervez Musharraf’s possible impeachment. He said, “Our politicians are good for nothing, however, if they manage to impeach the president, they will gain the people’s support.” Faisal, a young banker, told people how they could get cars on lease from banks. “I don’t recommend leasing to anyone living on a modest income.” Mustafa, a 35-year-old man, said God was favouring the country with more rains, but the government had failed to take any advantage from it. He said, “The government can produce electricity from the rainwater.” It seems all the rulers are busy in their own issues and have no concern for the people”. With the ending of the rain, the disparate group dispersed and resumed their separate journeys.

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