Pakistan's Street Pride

Glimpse into Pakistan's colorful road traffic and why it exists. Exploring the aspirations of the people who own them

By Danish Mujeeb

January 21^st, 2020

Source of Pride

Owning a vehicle in Pakistan consumes a much higher percentage of one's salary than it does in the western world. I remember, when I was just starting out, my car lease was almost 50% of my monthly salary. When something costs that much, you take extra pride in it.

The situation doesn't get much better for poor people. Hence, they are very proud of their commercial vehicles and they usually come out with a bang.

The colors are vibrant and the detail is intricate. Some are done tastefully and some try to use every color that they have in the shop. Each truck also makes sure to thank and praise God for this bounty i.e. the ability to own a truck and make a living of it.

Other traffic on the road is no push over! These trucks are usually swimming through a school of other colorful rickshaws and three wheeled vehicles

Pakistan's Unsung Hero: The Tractor

In the western world, the tractor is usually found in farms. Most people see them in movies or take a hay-ride in a commercial farm. In Pakistan, it's used everywhere and for every purpose where a pair of wheels and a powerful engine might help.

How about this one. The guy just parallel parked his tractor as he visits his friends in another farm! A Toyota Camry got nothing on this thing. This will plow your fields and take you anywhere you want!

What better way to visit the main street with your friend than a tractor. Don't have to worry about the condition of the roads. No one else would dare to mess with you, except of course, another tractor.

After you're done visiting your friends and the main street, you can always grab a pile of fresh dirt on your way back. One's still gotta take care of business. Don't forget those sunglasses though!