Udupi : After more than three decades of dedicated service and countless kilometres on Karnataka’s roads, veteran KSRTC driver Joseph Machado retired on May 30 with an exemplary record that remains free of negligence, accidents and delays. For thousands of passengers who travelled across Karnataka and neighbouring states, Machado became synonymous with safety, punctuality and professionalism during his 34-year career with the Karnataka State Road Transport Corporation (KSRTC).
A native of Udyavara in Udupi district, Machado was among the first batch of drivers selected to operate KSRTC’s prestigious Volvo buses when the luxury services were introduced in Bengaluru in 2002 and later expanded to Mangaluru. His retirement marks the end of a remarkable chapter in the history of the state transport corporation.
Among the first Volvo drivers
Joseph Machado earned recognition as one of the pioneering drivers entrusted with operating KSRTC’s Volvo fleet. The introduction of luxury buses marked a new era in public transport services, and the corporation selected experienced and disciplined drivers to handle the premium vehicles.
Over the years, Machado became a familiar face on several important long-distance routes. His calm demeanour, disciplined approach and commitment to passenger safety earned him the respect of both colleagues and commuters.
Passengers who frequently travelled on his routes often praised his courteous behaviour and smooth driving style, which contributed to comfortable and reliable journeys.
A career built on dedication
Machado joined KSRTC in 1992 and began his career at the Kundapura depot. He initially operated the Kollur–Chennai Rajahamsa service, which was later upgraded to an Airavat Volvo service.
His dedication and professionalism helped him build an impressive reputation within the organisation. In 2008, he was transferred to the Mangaluru depot, where he continued to serve on several premium long-distance routes.
During his tenure in Mangaluru, he drove services including the Mangaluru–Chennai Airavat, Mangaluru–Mumbai Airavat and Mangaluru–Pune Ambari Utsav routes. These services catered to thousands of passengers every year, many of whom came to recognise and appreciate his commitment to quality service.
Emotional farewell after final journey
Machado’s final assignment was the Mumbai–Mangaluru Airavat Club Class service on May 29. The occasion turned emotional as colleagues, depot staff and passengers gathered to bid farewell to a driver who had spent decades ensuring safe and comfortable travel.
Many regular commuters expressed their gratitude and appreciation for the countless journeys they had undertaken under his care. His retirement was seen not just as the departure of an employee but as the conclusion of a distinguished career that left a lasting impression on passengers and fellow staff members.
The farewell reflected the strong bond Machado had developed with the travelling public and his colleagues over the years.
Grateful for support from KSRTC
Reflecting on his long career, Machado acknowledged the support and encouragement he received from KSRTC. He particularly recalled the corporation’s assistance during a challenging period in 2018 when he underwent open-heart surgery.
According to Machado, KSRTC granted him six months of paid leave to aid his recovery, a gesture he remembers with gratitude. He also expressed appreciation for the cooperation and support extended by colleagues and senior officials throughout his service.
Among those he thanked was Mangaluru Senior Divisional Controller Rajesh Shetty, along with numerous staff members who contributed to a positive working environment during his career.
A legacy of professionalism
As Joseph Machado retires from service, he leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond an impressive employment record. His career stands as an example of dedication, discipline, customer care and professional excellence in public transport.
For KSRTC, his journey highlights the vital role played by committed employees in building trust among passengers and maintaining high service standards. For the thousands who travelled safely under his watch, Machado will be remembered as one of the corporation’s most dependable and respected drivers.
His retirement marks the end of an era, but his contribution to public transportation and passenger safety will continue to inspire future generations of KSRTC employees.