In the quiet town of Latur, Maharashtra, where the hustle and bustle of larger cities like Pune and Mumbai feel worlds away, life flows at a steadier pace. Known for its agricultural roots and rich historical sites, Latur also serves as a hub for transport and travel. Among the dedicated individuals who keep this vital sector running is Rafiq Sayyed, a mechanic whose skills and experience have made a significant impact on the local transport community.
Rafiq has been in the business for about 15 years, beginning his journey into the world of mechanics even before that. Today, he works for Narmada Travels and operates his own garage, Sana Auto Services, where he primarily focuses on buses and a few trucks. His garage is strategically located near the Latur market, allowing easy access for vehicles in need of service 24X7.
His daily routine starts promptly at 9 a.m. and often stretches to 8 p.m. Rafiq’s workday is filled with inspections, diagnostics, and repairs. “We check everything underneath the vehicle, from brake pipes to diesel lines,” he explains. “These components can wear out quickly, and if we don’t catch problems early, they could lead to breakdowns within days.”
Rafiq and his team typically handle six to eight vehicles daily, conducting routine checks and major repairs. Each vehicle is inspected meticulously, often every eight days, to ensure they are roadworthy. Rafiq emphasizes that “We complete maintenance and deliver vehicles on time,” a commitment that keeps his customers coming back. With the rise of technology in vehicles, he also works on sensors and diagnostics, a skill he honed over the past four years. He highlights the importance of preventive maintenance: “Thanks to our thorough checks, we’ve only encountered about 10 to 15 bearing failures in 15 years. That’s a significant achievement in this line of work.”
Rafiq is supported by Jagdish Swamy, the owner of Narmada Travels, who trusts his expertise and judgment without second-guessing his decisions. This level of trust allows Rafiq to perform his job with confidence, ensuring that each vehicle leaves the garage in optimal condition. He handles a range of brands, including Tata Motors, Ashok Leyland, BharatBenz, and Eicher, utilizing diagnostic tools with scanners and laptops to pinpoint issues accurately.
One recent challenge involved repairing a vehicle that couldn’t exceed 1500 RPM due to wiring issues. Rafiq quickly identified four damaged wires, resolving the issue just in time for the customer to pick up the vehicle that evening. His ability to handle high-pressure situations demonstrates not only his technical skills but also his commitment to customer service.
The rise of electric vehicles and new technologies presents both challenges and opportunities in the mechanic profession. Rafiq emphasizes the need for aspiring mechanics to adapt, suggesting that training in motor systems and battery management will be essential in the coming years. Rafiq is actively involved in training and mentoring, sharing his journey and wisdom to motivate newcomers. He recently attended a training program with Eicher in Bangalore, aiming to sharpen his skills further and stay updated with the latest techniques.
At home, Rafiq finds joy in spending time with his family. His wife manages household, while their daughter studies microbiology and their two sons are pursuing their education in engineering and high school, respectively. After long workdays, he enjoys unwinding by watching YouTube or his favorite TV shows like The Kapil Sharma Show and Taarak Mehta Ka Ooltah Chashmah.
Rafiq Sayyed embodies the hardworking spirit of Latur. Through his dedication to his craft and his commitment to the community, he plays a vital role in keeping the wheels of local transport moving smoothly. In a town that may not be as busy as Mumbai or Pune, his work ensures that residents and travelers can rely on safe and efficient transportation, contributing to the broader growth of Latur’s economy.