Coolies Of Karachi Cantt Railway Station

Coolies Of Karachi Cantt Railway Station When one frequents railway stations in the sub continent, he can see these men in orange or red, where they are still largely employed to carry our load when we travel. Porters in this part of the world are commonly referred to as 'coolies' and carry an unimaginable amount of luggage while transporting them to their customers' cabins. This photo essay focuses on the porters at the Karachi Cantt Railway Station. – Text and photos by Madeeha Syed/Dawn Waiting in line for customers in the parking lot of the Karachi Cantt Railway Station. One of them looks back after hiding his face, seeming a little camera-shy, while others wanted to be photographed. An argument between two porters Some of these porters are actually quite old. The man in the middle in green held this pose especially for the photograph. While carrying a grand total of four pieces of luggage, this porter stopped for a photograph while entering the main waiting area. A porter tries to balance the precarious luggage he is carrying. Taking a moment to check his cell phone. They will carry luggage wherever they can. That includes several pieces on top of their heads as well as on both arms! A group of porters passes by carrying their load on the railway platform. This porter is carrying two very large pieces of luggage – an act that looks almost impossible. On a closer look you can see the sheer amount of stress he is under. One of the porters, sits on the edge of the platform overlooking wet and littered railway tracks. The ID numbers of each porter are clearly visible on the back of their shirts.