King of the Road Photo

Photographer’s Note

Sights like this are very common in India, but I must say, I never saw another load piled quite so high as this one. I'm not sure if this was sugar cane, bamboo or fire wood, but whatever it was, it made for a humourous shot.

Driving in India is often a terrifying experience, but I was amazed at how few accidents we came across. When we did come across one though, it was usually horrendous. I saw a three wheeled taxi once that had been hit by a truck (like this one), and it was as if it exploded, there were pieces of it everywhere. We were told the taxi was full, and that none survived. One of the unfortunate risks of the road.

I'm not sure where we were when I took this picture. I do know that we were out on the road, somewhere between Hyderabad and Ongole.

spence has marked this note useful

Critiques | Translate

spence (1679) 2005-10-11 7:20

Hello John - welcome back! As you can see, TE is a much busier place these days and it's hard to keep track - I've only just realised that you're back on board. What an amazing load on this truck. At least it appears to be carefully stacked:) I like the perspective created by your pov and the disappearing line of electricity poles.

sarju (5308) 2005-10-11 12:58

Hi John
very appropriately titled photo. for these are the kings of the road in a place where the rule is bigger vehicle has the right of way .... I always prefered to ride a train rather than drive a car on the indian roads ... lols ... your photo brought back lots of memories
of course the queen of the road is a cow ... i hope you knew it
cheers .... sarju

erdna (5348) 2005-10-11 20:20

A good photograph depicting transport conditions in India. Your photo is properly focused with good point of view. We have the same conditions in the Philippines and the trucks also carry sugar canes! Thank you for letting me know it is the same way in India.

Andre'

vladimirum (69) 2006-03-15 16:11