Navi Mumbai: It was a farewell that Valmiki Nagre, driver of NMMT bus route No. 108, never expected. For long the driver of bus route no. 108, Nagre was a regular for passengers of the bus that plies between Nerul and World Trade Center, Cuffe Parade. However, Nagre was recently transferred and attached to the control department from June 2.

As a gesture of gratitude, regular passengers organised a farewell party and a gift for Nagre. With just a few months to retire – Nagre will superannuate in February 2026, Nagre was overwhelmed by the gesture of the passengers. “I have no words to express my sincere gratitude and it proved that we are like one family,” he said.

It was much deserved, according to the passengers. “Nagre has been ferrying us for a long time and is known for his polite, courteous and helpful nature as well as for his accommodative approach,” informed Anuj Pandey, resident of CBD. 

His views were shared by another passenger. “As soon as we came to know about his transfer, we planned some surprise gifts for him to acknowledge his hard work and sincerity, and to show our gratitude.” “Nagre always ensured our comfort and safety while ferrying us through heavy traffic congestion and enabled us to reach our offices on time,” she added. 

Regular passengers felt that the drivers of the public transport buses are unsung heroes on the roads, since they work tirelessly providing safe journey to the destinations.