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Truck Drivers' Untold Tales: Navigating India's Roads and Dhabas
4 Oct
Summary
- Truck drivers face long hours, poor facilities, and lack of public policy support
- Chicken butter masala, a beloved dish, holds nostalgic memories for the author
- Truck drivers' struggles include family separation, poor living conditions, and health issues
In October 2025, the article delves into the experiences of truck drivers in India, who have long played a vital role in the country's economy. The author reflects on their own childhood memories, recalling long drives with their parents in the 1960s and the discovery of the iconic chicken butter masala dish at a dhaba in Gobindpur, Jharkhand.
The article then takes readers on a journey across India, highlighting the diverse experiences of truck drivers, from the bare-bones truck stops in Xinjiang to the well-maintained government restaurants in Sissu, Himachal Pradesh. The author shares anecdotes of memorable meals, from the delicious maccher jhol in Krishnanagar to the perfectly fried Wiener Schnitzel in a "trucker's castle" near Frankfurt.
However, the article also sheds light on the harsh realities faced by these unsung heroes. Truck drivers often endure long hours, poor living conditions, and separation from their families. The article notes that the ratio of drivers to trucks in India has been declining, with many opting for the relative comforts of driving for ride-hailing services in the cities.
The article emphasizes the critical role that trucks play in India's economy, carrying 70% of the country's freight. It also highlights the government's efforts to improve the road infrastructure, but notes that the lack of drivers remains a structural issue. The author suggests that addressing the challenges faced by truck drivers, such as providing better accommodation and enforcing regulations, could improve their working conditions and ultimately benefit all who use India's roads.
