Driver Welfare

The Steady Hand Behind the Wheel – The Story of Jameer Ahmed

For ten years, Jameer Ahmed has been a trusted driver with S M Carrying Corporation (SMCC); a man who carries not just goods across India’s highways, but also a quiet pride in doing his job with honesty, discipline, and calm.

At 45, Jameer’s life revolves around his Ashok Leyland BS VI 1920 HF; a 32-foot container truck that feels more like a partner than a machine. “It’s a smooth truck,” he says with confidence. “The gear shifts are easy, mileage is good; and it pulls heavy loads comfortably.” He appreciates the improved cabin too, which makes long drives a little less tiring. “Two people can rest properly. The space and handling really help on the highways.” Every week, he drives 600 to 700 kilometers a day, clocking endless miles through the night when the roads are clearer and the air cooler. “The cabin is comfortable for two people,” he emphasises with a smile.

His base may be listed as Pune, but home is truly the open road. He carries everything from washing machines to air conditioners from Pune to Chennai, Kochi, Madurai, and even Ahmedabad. Jameer stays at the SMCC office when in town and sleeps at trusted dhabas during long trips; where drivers gather for tea at 3 a.m. before continuing the journey. There’s a rhythm to his routine; drive, check the vehicle, rest, eat, drive again. It’s a rhythm built on reliability.

Jameer hails from Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. His wife and son live there; his son is pursuing graduation, aiming to build a future beyond the truck cabin. “He will study and do something else,” Jameer says with quiet satisfaction. His brother drives in Saudi Arabia, keeping up the family’s connection to transport, but Jameer himself has never considered working abroad. “I am happy here,” he says simply.

He doesn’t smoke, doesn’t drink, and doesn’t chew tobacco; rare among highway drivers. “I never touch alcohol or cigarette,” he says firmly. His discipline shows not only in his words but also in the way he handles his truck. SMCC, he says, treats its drivers with respect; offering medical claims, timely payments, and a work culture built on trust. “If there’s an accident or problem, the transport manager comes, and things are handled properly. Nobody shouts or blames,” he explains. Sometimes, when Manish Sharma, Managing Partner happens to be on the same route, he joins Jameer for dinner or a night pitstop at his favourite Dhaba; a simple gesture that speaks volumes of the mutual respect they share. “They trust us with occasional advance payments if needed, they have that much faith,” Jameer adds.

When asked about younger generations avoiding truck driving, he pauses. “The educated ones look for office work. But some will still come; those who truly want to learn. This work feeds many families.”

On the road, Jameer prefers peace over distraction. He doesn’t watch movies or videos. “I sleep when I stop,” he says. “That’s enough for me.” Sometimes, when the mood strikes, he hums softly to himself, though he laughs it off as nothing serious.

In a profession that demands endurance, Jameer stands out for his steadiness; not loud or boastful, just quietly dependable. For ten years, SMCC has trusted him with valuable cargo and long-distance hauls, and he has repaid that trust everytime.

For Jameer Ahmed, every delivery is more than just a consignment. It’s a promise, kept faithfully on every road he travels.