Traffic jams around the world that make Malaysia’s bumper to bumper seem like child’s play
Scream, curse, blast the music in anger and don’t forget to pull your hair and clench your fists. Oh yeah. Traffic jams. Whose blood doesn’t boil at the mere thought of it? It’s the first thing we think about in the morning before getting into work and the last thing we think about when going home – open waze, check if got jam, groan in agony when that despised red line sears itself into your retina.
Okay, okay. Here’s something that might give you some perspective; traffic jams in other parts in the world are much worse than the one’s here! No, really! Just read on ahead and hopefully it’ll help you keep your calm the next time you’re forced to play the #mannequinchallenge on the road, in your car.
Chicago, Illinois
Where exactly? Lake Shore Drive.
How long did the jam last? 12 hours. Yeah. Half a day. Stuck in your car, listening to reruns on the radio, grinding your teeth.
Housten, Texas
Where exactly? Interstate 45.
How long did the jam last for? 48 hours. This one was to evacuate the area during Hurricane Rita. Can you imagine moving at snail’s speed and knowing that behind you is an angry, wind monster? Now I’m grateful for our 3 hour long jams with beautiful sunny weather!
Los Angeles, America
Where exactly? The 405.
How long was the jam? Couldn’t find specifics but here’s something to give you an idea: millions were travelling home for Thanksgiving. So imagine Raya or CNY but times a million or two. Or more.
Beijing, China
Where exactly? The Beijing-Tibet expressways
How long did the jam last? 12 days. Nope, you read that right. TWELVE DAYS. That’s an epic (and depressing) 288 hours. Honestly, this one is just surreal but trust me, it happened.
The next time waze shows me a 23 minute delay, I’m going to smile and thank the red, yellow and green Gods of Traffic.