Mintulaha Mistri, affectionately known as Abdul, has spent 18 years under the hoods of trucks, perfecting his craft. At 44, he operates out of Bhiwadi, a bustling hub for transporters, where he continues to fuel his passion for mechanics. His journey began at Sanjay Gandhi Transport Nagar, a training ground that helped shape his expertise. “I mostly work on trucks—engine overhauls, brakes, wiring, and battery maintenance,” Abdul explains, proud of his trade. “Every repair is like breathing new life into a vehicle.”
Abdul’s toolkit, mostly his own, is an extension of his hands and a reflection of his years of experience. It includes wrenches, spanners, pliers, and socket sets, essential for everything from minor adjustments to major repairs. For more intricate work, he uses torque wrenches, diagnostic scanners, and multimeters to fine-tune engines and troubleshoot electrical issues.
His arsenal also includes a trusty hammer and pry bar for tackling stubborn components that need extra force. While transporters like JKM occasionally provide specialized tools like hydraulic jacks and brake testers for BSIV and BSVI engines, Abdul prefers his own familiar gear. “Tools are a mechanic’s best friend,” he says, explaining how knowing their quirks makes every task smoother. Even basic items like a flashlight and a tyre pressure gauge are part of his essential kit to ensure no detail is overlooked during inspections.
For battery work, Abdul relies on battery testers, hydrometers to check electrolyte levels, and charging equipment. These tools help him keep trucks running reliably, day in and day out. A brand Abdul holds in high regard is Tata Green Batteries, known for their long life and dependability. “They stand out for their reliability,” he says, emphasizing their growing popularity among transporters. Battery issues are common in Abdul’s work, especially as trucks reach specific mileage milestones. “Identifying battery or alternator problems requires a keen eye,” he explains. “Dim headlights or dashboard warning lights often signal a problem. If the alternator isn’t performing well, I repair that first, then test the battery with a full charge to ensure everything is working smoothly.”
Abdul’s day begins early and often extends into the evening, as he handles four to five trucks by sunset. His checklist is comprehensive yet systematic: inspecting brakes, diesel exhausts, pressure pumps, wiring, and hub bearings. “Brakes and wiring issues are the most common,” he remarks. “Drivers sometimes overlook basic greasing, which causes unnecessary wear and tear.” Despite the challenges, Abdul takes immense pride in his work. “There’s a sense of accomplishment when a truck roars back to life after a complete engine overhaul,” he says, a smile spreading across his face.
Keeping up with rapidly evolving engine technology, such as BSIV and BSVI, is no easy task. But Abdul thrives on hands-on learning. “Sometimes, manufacturers or suppliers like Tata Green Batteries conduct workshops, which are very helpful,” he shares. “But most of the time, it’s about adapting as you go.”
What motivates Abdul is not just the technical side of the job but the trust he builds with drivers and transporters. “They trust me with their livelihood,” he says. “A well-maintained truck means fewer breakdowns on the road and more safety for everyone.” However, Abdul observes that fewer young people are entering the profession. “Many prefer formal training or white-collar jobs, and women are still rare in this line of work,” he notes. Yet Abdul remains optimistic. “The new generation has the potential to take this profession to the next level with technology and innovation.”
In his downtime, Abdul unwinds by catching up with his driver friends, who keep him updated on road incidents and stories from their journeys. “It’s important to switch off after a long day,” he says, offering a glimpse into how he balances the demands of his work. For Abdul, being a mechanic is more than a job—it’s a way of life. His hands may be stained with grease, but his heart is full of pride. “Every truck has a story, and I’m here to keep them going,” he says, summing up his philosophy with a deep sense of fulfillment.