Arun Kumar starts his day before the sun rises. At 42, with over a decade of experience behind the wheel, he has grown accustomed to the rhythm of the road. As he prepares his Eicher Pro 2118 for another journey from the Coca-Cola factory in Bidadi, he methodically checks the tyres, brakes, and engine—habits ingrained through years of discipline. His job at Southern Cargo Carriers, is to transport Coca-Cola juices across various locations, ensuring that shelves are stocked and customers stay refreshed.
Arun’s journey into trucking wasn’t a straight path. He started his career in construction, but the uncertainty of daily wages and irregular work pushed him to seek stability. “I wanted something more reliable, something that would give my family a steady income,” he says. Obtaining his commercial driving license was a turning point, opening doors to a profession that, while demanding, also gave him a sense of purpose.
Over the years, he has driven various trucks each with its own quirks and challenges. He has navigated city congestion, winding hill roads, and unpredictable weather conditions. Long-haul routes take him through vast landscapes, but his favorite journeys are those through the mountains. “Driving through the hills gives me a sense of peace. The fresh air, the winding roads – it’s like the truck and I are in sync with nature,” he shares with a smile.
Guided by Technology, Secured by Safety
Every trip brings new experiences, some routine, others unforgettable. One such moment was delivering humanitarian aid to a disaster-stricken area. Seeing the relief on people’s faces as supplies arrived made him realize that his job was more than just transporting goods—it was about connecting people to what they need most.
Life on the road comes with its own set of challenges. Long hours, unpredictable delays, and the physical toll of constant driving require discipline. Arun ensures he takes regular breaks, stretching his legs, grabbing a quick meal, or simply closing his eyes for a few minutes. “Managing stress is part of the job. When traffic piles up or a deadline looms, I remind myself to stay calm and find a way forward.”
Technology has significantly changed the way Arun works. GPS and electronic logging devices have made routes more efficient, while mobile apps keep him connected with dispatchers and fellow drivers. He sees a future where electric and autonomous trucks redefine the industry but believes the human touch will always be essential. “Machines can’t replace the instinct of an experienced driver,” he says.
Balancing work and personal life isn’t easy, but Arun makes the most of his time at home. His family is his anchor, and phone calls during breaks keep him connected to them. When not on the road, he enjoys hiking, fishing, and reading – activities that offer a welcome escape from the roar of the engine.
Looking at the trucking industry, Arun hopes for better-maintained roads and more efficient loading processes. He believes young drivers can be drawn into the profession if they understand its stability and opportunities for growth. His advice to newcomers? “Do your research, understand the demands, and be prepared for the challenges. It’s not just about driving; it’s about responsibility, patience, and time management.”
Despite the hardships, Arun wouldn’t trade his job for anything else. The freedom of the open road, the changing landscapes, and the satisfaction of knowing he plays a vital role in the supply chain keep him going. “Every journey has its ups and downs, but in the end, the road always leads you home.”
“We believe in putting the power of technology into the hands of our
drivers. Their success is our success. We’re proud to see how technology
is helping Eicher Truck and Bus drivers achieve greater efficiency and
peace of mind on the road. It’s great to know how drivers like Arun
are using connected technology like the industry leading MyEicher
App to streamline their operations and driving experience.”
– Ramesh Rajagopalan, EVP, Customer Service, Retail Excellence and Network Development, VECV