How to survive the wild…and the Delhi-Gurgaon expressway

The writer of this piece is an avid fan of "Survival" programs on television, which teach viewers how to find "civilisation" in unlikely situations. These TV shows typically drop two individuals into remote locations, such as the Amazonian jungle or the African savannah, with minimal equipment and a timeframe of three days to find help.

The TV presenters often claim that the contestants need specialized training, like that of a Green Beret or Special Forces, to survive such settings. However, the writer asserts that even an ordinary person can follow cardinal priorities to survive such situations.

To survive, one must prioritize finding water, food, shelter, and a way to create fire. They must locate a stream or river downstream, which will eventually lead to a village or town. Building a simple "lean to" or finding a cave can provide shelter from wildlife like leopards, bears, and other predators. Water must be boiled for at least 20 minutes before consumption, as it could contain harmful contaminants.

Additionally, the writer highlights the importance of identifying edible plants, berries, and fruits, as well as knowing which ones are poisonous. The writer also emphasizes the need to become a hunter-gatherer by crafting a bow and arrow or spear for hunting, or improvising a fish trap using a T-shirt and grubs as bait. In dire circumstances, one may have to dam a section of the stream and catch fish by hand.

The writer acknowledges the physical exertion and mental challenges faced during survival, including disagreements between partners and navigating through harsh terrain. Despite these obstacles, the writer believes that using para-cord can make a significant difference. After three days, the individual would ideally find civilization and be rescued, unlike many others who remain stuck on the Delhi-Gurgaon expressway.