The Pune Tamtam - An Endangered Species

A lucky few have survived, and all operations are on to save them from extinction.

Introducing to the rest of the world, 'the Tamtam' (also called the six-seater, but this is a complete misnomer) that runs as a form of public transport vehicle in some parts of Pune. Typically black in color, this species can be found carrying an overwhelming number of people from point A to point B. Easy to spot, each occurring within minutes of the other, the tamtam is a popular hit amongst the Punekars.

Ideally the vehicle's capacity is 6 passengers. But the tamtam believes in exceeding expectations, and takes double the capacity. Ofcourse, the tamtam driver has to arrange the passengers in a way so as to balance the load all across, or there are very high chances that the tamtam may topple off if one heavy memsahib sits at one end. But at most times the tamtam drivers are efficient at their job. Occasionally you spot a few light weight boys hanging on one foot from the tamtam as well. The principle is simple: Use whatever space you have to make money. Even if the space is as less as to fit just a person's foot.

If you belong to the 'touch-me-not' types, this is not a place for you. You have to leave your inhibitions behind and adjust yourself so that you can make a place for you till you reach your destination. It is amazing to see how accommodating people can be in this little enclosure. Each one adjusts for the other. If only people were as accommodating in their personal lives too!

Every trip from point A to B makes the tamtam's driver richer by 60 bucks atleast, considering it is holding 12 passengers. The driver's seat is occupied by 3 passengers, other than the driver ofcourse. The rear seats hold 8 more, and one is found hanging from the vehicle, balancing on just his foot and holding the tamtam by his arm (displaying an amazing act of acrobatics).

Proudly cruising away at a speed of 25 km/hr, with not less than 13 people on board, a cloud of black smoke as it's leave-behind trail, being the highest contributor to Pune's pollution (one of the reasons for it's possible extinction in the future), at 5 bucks charged per person, this ride is action-packed, adventurous and cost-effective. Need a ride? Hop-in!