“What do you want?” was a milder question
than I expected.
“There is a tree fallen across the road in
the middle of the forest.”
“Where exactly is it?” He asked again.
“It is near to the Hanuman Temple.”
“Where has the tree fallen from? Top or
bottom? “
“It has fallen across the road.” I did not understand how the direction of the fall matters, but still I said, “It has
fallen from bottom to top.”
“Then you have to inform the other office.
It is their jurisdiction.” And he went in.
I felt foolish to trust the government
offices. I turned and walked back to the tea shop.
“What did they tell?” They were curious.
“They told to inform the other office.” Is what I said to them. “Can you inform
them?” I asked the Maruthi vala.
“Yes I will.” He readily accepted. I walked
to my motorcycle and started back to the scene at the middle of the forest.
They had started cutting down the tree when
I reached them.
“Did you inform them? What did they tell
you? Are they coming?” All were hopeful that help will be coming soon. Because
they forgot they are in India.
“I don’t think they will be coming. They are blaming the responsibility on each other.”
“Oh God!” Exclaimed one. “Let us see what
we can do.” came the voice of an optimist from the crowd.
(to be continued.)
