Management lessons from the road

Driving is an enjoyable activity. More so, because it lets the drivers think and analyse their surroundings. Driving style is a direct resultant of a person’s personality and says a lot about his attitude.
Having about 50000kms of tarmac under my belt across terrains, I thought to put up some general rules that incidentally, also hold true for managing an organization.

1. Transparency helps: It might be jazzy to have an opaque car (with dark all round film/high slanted rear windshield) where the guy following you cannot see what’s in store for you, but in case of a slight hiccup, you shall be the first one to be hit from the back. This is especially true for a company with an upward trajectory, as people rarely follow you downwards.

2. Stay on the right side of the law: Not following the law may have an adventure/gain quotient, but over the long term, law will sure catch up with you. A Rs. 45 + 10 minutes regular pollution check shall help you escape the INR 100 penalty + 20 minutes haggling time.

3. Identify the leader, and follow him closely: How many times have you seen a car just zipping through the crowd, and more often than not, another motorist clears the maze by following the leader. It calls for immense faith in the leader as also the ability to steer clear of the leader’s path if he gets into a roadblock. If you don’t have the ability to create, have the ability to imitate.

4. Keep your eyes open for potential roadblocks: A steady cruise may be brought to an abrupt halt the moment you fail to notice the bullock cart that is crossing the way. It may not be your competitor and may not be planted by the competition, but can destroy your dream run.

5. Watch your back: Similar to the point above, it is necessary to know what is behind you in order to adapt your course/speed according to the situation.

6. Watch out for potential opportunities: Many times, you can spot an empty space in the fast moving lane. Other times you can judge from the speed difference of two cars that a space will get created soon. Have the eyes to spot these spaces and the power to move in when it seems beneficial. The Oberoi group is still reaping the gains of the Vilas hotels, all of whom were taken on cheap lease.

7. Never on autopilot: Autopilot works in autobahns where the perfect competition scenario is unfolding. In a competitive scenario, you need to keep an eye on the work, and on the business.

8. Automatic transmission is easy; it’s the manual that will take you ahead. Automated processes can help iron out the inefficiencies of the regular operations. However, it is only the creative people who can invent processes dynamically. Value these people and let them choose their processes. It may not work sometimes, but usually you will have a winner.

9. Size matters both ways: An SUV may look intimidating in the rear view, and people might give it the first right of way, but in case of a block, it will be stranded for longer while a hot hatch can just weave its way through. Similarly, a behemoth may intimidate its competitors, and dissuade them from entering the industry; but in case of a change, a nimble footed organization will change course and succeed, leaving the giant stranded.

10. There is no point trying to beat down a super car; chase it nonetheless: Know your territory, there is no point trying to beat down a 500 bhp supercar with your 75bhp hatch. Even though, trying to chase it will take you ahead of your siblings. Fight with people your size, and aim to get closer to the ones that are bigger.

11. Carve your niche: This requires knowing your strengths and weaknesses. Similar to last point. Don’t give up thinking you are weak. Identify your strengths and play the game on those. A 150cc bike can give a supercar a run for its money when it comes to negotiating a busy street. Similarly, a ZTE/ Huawei can succeed in the Indian market selling Tata Photon Internet Dongles.

12. Both the machine and the driver are equally important: A 500 bhp car will crash in the sidewalls in the hands of an incompetent driver. Also, a Michael Schumacher behind the wheels of a Fiat Padmini will not win rallies. The organisation and the human resource need to be properly aligned for best performance. It includes training and development of the employees, as also constant updating of the organizational resources.

13. Humility matters: Even if you dream of the sky, keep your eyes on the ground (low-beam). A high beam can set you on a collision course with another vehicle. If your eyes are up, he will never be able to see your actual purpose, and your course may be considered defiant. Even a lowly clerk in a government office, or a journalist, or a rights activist can derail your huge plans.

14. Using the public transport may cut the clutter at places: Instead of driving through till the city centre, park in the fringes and take the subway to the centre. It may be uncomfortable and void of exclusivity, and you may need to adjust to other people, but you will travel faster. Similarly, lobbying alone may get you exclusive privileges, but the possibility is low; align to a bigger group to target better results.

15. Safety: It’s for your own good, not for the police. It may not be fashionable, but a safe shell will protect you in case of an eventuality. Had Kingfisher followed a proper and sound business model instead of investing in fashionable frills, it would have been in a sound (if not great) condition today.
 

Impromptu trip to Reckong Peo in an Ikon

13th February: Me and a friend sitting at the Cafe Goethe in Central Delhi for Lunch. He says, "Im going to Ladakh" Since Ladakh trip has been planned and ditched many times in the past, I casually ask, "When and how?"

His response: "Tomorrow in my Ikon, Coming?"
I asked him if anything had been prepared. The answer was in the negative. He asked me to check up Team BHP and finalise by the evening (He is not a member but an avid follower). We decided to attempt Spiti as it was more likely to happen than Ladakh.

That evening, I put up an emergency thread on Bhp, my main concern was the roads in winter, and underbody protection for Ikon. Met with a stern response from the mods: 'Please refrain from posting new threads on topics already discussed.' Searched on all possible threads and dropped in a PM to fine69 (Vikram- He had done Spiti on his Swift). I packed up my trekking gear, but had still to ask my parents.

14th February: In the morning my parents vetoed the idea. I called up my friend and told him " Need to check, will only be able to confirm by 4". He informs me that he will get his tyres changed during the day. At 2, somehow cajoled mom to agree. They didn't know it was Spiti, they were told of Narkanda.

At 4: 15, yours truly in Boss' Chamber: "Sir I need some leave" Surprisingly boss gives a go ahead and says -Be back by Monday.

4:30 The Ikon is parked in the office driveway, We leave for Spiti in 10 minutes. No reservations, No music, No map!

Putting up a couple of teaser pics.

We left the Delhi border around 5:30. Manyu (my friend) had got some snacks and had got both rear tyres changed. His front tyres had been replaced about a month back. So we were on all new tyres.

No other checks had been made on the car. However, since he is one person who takes good care of his car, I was assured of the car. We were carrying a couple of military-spec jackets and body warmers as we expected to stay in the car for a night at least.

We made our move towards Chandigarh. We were to stay at a cousins' place there. It was after the Delhi border that I got a chance to drive the Ikon for the first time (in my life). I had never driven his car as he always considered me careless. It took some time for me to get used to the controls of the Ikon (light/indicator on the left stalk as against on the Right for my Esteem). Also, the diesel engine had a torquey feel.

Drive 1: Delhi- Chandigarh 14th February
The highway is good, and the only stops we made were at "Sukhdev Dhaba, Murthal" and the three tolls enroute.
The dhabas at Murthal have a loyal Fan base and they serve excellent parathas with White butter. Total bill for 2: Rs 140.
There are three tolls on the way: Total hit about Rs. 145
Just before entering Chandigarh, we saw a huge Sambur on the highwayside. I could not brake there and had to take a u-turn after about 500 metres, by when it had vanished. It did look imposing with the huge horns and the lights falling on it from passing vehicles.

We reached Chandigarh by 9:30, had a great home cooked dinner, and fell asleep.

Drive 2: Chandigarh- Shimla- Narkanda- Rampur- Jhakri- Bhabhanagar (262 kms, 15th February)

The next day we got up early and left Chandigarh by 730. At about 930, we stopped near Solan to load some music on the USB drive. The cold outside was freezing and we knew that we were in for a tough time.
Attachment 892150

We met two young kids going to school. Remembered my school days, when I used to trudge up the hill with my younger brother. Stopped and gave them a chocolate each (for telling their names )
Attachment 892152

At 1100, we reached Shimla and went up to the ground above the mall. Surprisingly for a weekday, there were many tourists. We sat down at the HPTDC 'Goofa' restaurant and ordered breakfast. It has a fantastic location and offers both open air and glazed sitting. The service was very slow but the food made up for it. Price: Rs. 104 for two.

We were out of Shimla by 1215. Being a hill person myself, I was saddened by the state of the city. As with Nainital (my hometown), this city has also been damaged irreparably by rampant commercialization.Traffic Jams, numerous vehicles, and construction everywhere have taken away its charm.

We continued towards Kufri. We got our first glimpse of Snow and Slush there. The roads had been cleared by the PWD/BRO and hence were in motorable condition. (though the snow had made the surface undulating, hence slowing down average speeds)

The Road


Kufri


I dream of such a house: Lonely yet vibrant with nature


The dancing clouds


Beyond Kufri, we got amazing roads, and we found ourselves profusely blessing BRO/PWD for the job. A glimpse


We reached Narkanda at about 1530 hrs. It was covered in at least 2-3 ft of snow. We asked people for the roads ahead and set forth to Rampur immediately.
Snow near Narkanda



Rampur is a decent town, and has a Vishal Mega mart, and dealers/ service centers for ICML/ MAruti/ Tata/ Chevrolet and Yamaha. There is also a tibetan Gompa for those who wish to visit.


We crossed Rampur at 5:00. At about the same time, got a call from Vikram (Fine69) about our plan. He was surprised to know that we were already on our way. He suggested that we stay the night at Sarahan and then move forward.

We got amazing valley view after Rampur. There was some landslide near Jhakri but the road was open.



The car and the owner



Divine views


At Jeori, we decided against going to Sarahan and instead continued to Wangtu. Sarahan was a little off the track, and since we were doing good speed, we hoped that we will make it to Wangtu by 8ish.

However, a little later, we came across a slush covered Aveo. The gentleman there advised us to stay at Bhabhanagar (about 30 kms from Jeori, on the way to Wangtu) as there was heavy slush after that and we may get stuck.

Bhabhanagar had an SJVNL field hostel. The incharge asked us if we work for the government. On my affirmative answer, he made me talk to his boss, who allowed us to stay there for the night. The hostel is well built and provides running hot water + heaters. The food was decent and we paid him a total of Rs. 750 for the stay + dinner + breakfast next day. My suggestion would be to enquire with them in advance for a booking during season time.

Drive 3: Bhabhanagar- ReckongPeo(almost)-(reverse) Narkanda (almost)- reverse to Sainj. (180 kms)

We got up early today, and went down to the river for a stroll. Came across this Chinese machine thrown near the river.
It is probably some compressor engine used by SJVNL in one of its hydro projects.



The riverside had amazing views. The water was sparkling clear and the gurgling sound was enchanting.



We left the field hostel at about 10 am. A driver with SJVNL, Deepak helped us out with the route. We were advised to not go beyond Reckong Peo, as the area was prone to Snow and the road would shut down for days on end.

The road from Bhabhanagar to Tapri via Wangtu was in a bad shape. Mostly it was unmetalled/ (metalled with lots of debris). The average speed on this stretch was about 20kmph.

The mountain roads. It gets really difficult if you have to reverse on any of these due to a truck/bus in the way.


Awesome sights surrounded the place.



An old timer


The Baspa Dam.


We kept driving on and came across a bridge, after which the roads became worse. We did a water crossing after watching intently a bus do the same. Manyu was deftly guiding me from across the crossing. Soon after this, we came down a 30 degree incline that was slushy and did not have a railing. The track was barely wide enough for the car and more than a couple of times, I could feel the car slipping towards the river.

Two turns later, we came across a huge stretch of deep slush where the Maxx travelling in front of us got stuck. He was a local taxi driver and deftly reversed the vehicle, got a few people to deboard and then took the stretch again. This time he managed to do it. We were waiting along the sides when a bus from the other side informed us that the track ahead was equally bad, if not worse. It had also started snowing, and we decided to not take any chances. We decided to turn back there.




While returning, we recorded the inclined slush track that we crossed.

Abhimanyu and Tapish drive through Reckong Peo - YouTube

The way back gave some awesome scenery. Drive times improved considerably after Bhabhanagar. This time, Manyu was on the wheel, and following some spirited driving by him, we reached 5kms short of Narkanda at about 6 o clock.


The drillers of the Dams appear like missile launchers. Feels like the Hindustan Tibet Road.


The SSB center near Narkanda provided some awesome valley views.




The adventure was yet to begin..
It was snowing on the foothills of Narkanda. A bus had collided sideways onto a Maxx, and the two were having a heated argument. The damage to the MAxx was not much but he was adamant on the bus driver paying up. The bus driver on the other hand was asking for some time to get the money. After about an hour, the argument ended but by this time, the road had about a couple of inches of snow. There was a Maruti 800 with a Northern Motorsport sticker parked in front of us. He asked us to follow him and parked his car on the right as the traffic had started moving on the left. He also asked us to reduce tyre pressure for better grip.

A car passed from the left after swaying around in the snow. It was followed by an Innova, whose driver braked hard and BANG! it banged into the rear of my car. People around pushed it out and then suggested me to reverse the car. The M800 I was supposed to follow also changed course and set south. I turned the car in snow with great difficulty. A big thanks to the people who pushed the car around, though I must admit that everybody was giving contradictory directions, making my job difficult.


Attaching daytime pics of the curve.




Surprisingly, the car just had minor scratches.


We drove back about 28 kms to Sainj. Thanks to the HPTDC, Narkanda manager who Talked to the manager of Atul Regency and got a room confirmed.


The hotel provides decent food, and running hot water + Tv in rooms.
After a hard day's work, we finally had some good food and slept.

Day 4: Sainj- Narkanda (33kms)

We got up early this day, and went down to the river. The river was beautiful and provided some very nice frames. We relaxed in the chilling waters for some time, as we had to go only upto Narkanda that day.

The village


The view from my room. Spot the bus!


The cauliflowers


The Parakeets


The riverside view


The rivulet that joins into the river


An SUV track leads into the river. Highly recommended to give your car a much needed wash


We left the hotel at about 11 after breakfast. Paid him a total of Rs. 1300 for a night's stay, dinner (including chicken) and breakfast.
We encountered heavy snow enroute Narkanda. We were thanking God we returned last night.





Once in Narkanda, we went straight to the HPTDC Hatu rest house. It has a fantastic location and a beautiful lonely path leads to it.




The awesome Snow chairs


The awesome view from the hotel.



We checked in and immediately went Skiiing. The ABV Mountaineering institute in Manali runs extremely cheap skiing programs of 7/14 day duration here. The slopes were nice and not very crowded. We paid Rs. 500 for two people. They initially quoted Rs 200 each for an hour, but we preferred to take the unlimited usage plan .

Skiing proved to be an awesome experience. After that, we trudged back to the hotel and had food at the Cafeteria. HPTDC has a list of Himachal delicacies that they provide their guests. We chose to have the Anardana Chicken. It was simply superb. After dinner, we asked them for a jug of tea and sat down on the snow chairs outside. It was cold, but the clear starry sky, and slight wind combined with hot tea made the experience worth it. We retired soon for dinner after that.

Day 5: Narkanda- Chandigarh (182 km)

We got up early and checked out. Paid a total of about Rs 2400 for a night's stay + dinner for two. Narkanda also has some other cheaper options for stay. We had breakfast at a small restaurant Shyam Bhojnalaya, and proceeded for Skiing.

Today, we did better than the last day. I was even able to negotiate the professional slope once. The second time, I crashed into the sides .









We left Narkanda after skiing for about 4 hours and took the highway to Shimla and beyond to Chandigarh. We reached Kalka at about 8 o clock. There was a slight jam there. We also had Isher's kulfi in Kalka (on the main chandigarh shimla road). Highly recommended!

We got some awesome frames on our way back. some of these are showcased here:





And the Finale


We reached Chandigarh at 9. Went for a quick family dinner to the Sagar Ratna in Sector 5, and then crahed.

Final day (Chandigarh- Delhi)
We left Chandigarh at 11, and continued till Murthal where we had a good meal, again!

Saw a couple of Bhp marked cars on the way. A White Swift DDis and a Silver Zen Estilo with an L marker.

We hit Delhi at about 4, marking the end of this fantastic trip.