If you think trucking is a tough business here, imagine what it’s like in the Middle East. I recently came across an interesting article published by NPR about trucking in Afghanistan, detailing the dangers of the business that is proving to be quite profitable.
Many trucking companies in the Middle East have contracts with the U.S. Military to transport goods. They transport everything from construction equipment to food to air conditioning units and everything in between. But it comes at a risk – the trucks are often targeted by the Taliban. The drivers (who are often of Middle Eastern descent) may be stopped, robbed, and even killed. Some trucking companies have started adding armed escorts though it doesn’t always keep the drivers safe.
As difficult and discouraging as the recent recession has been, this article should serve as a reminder of how fortunate we are to live in a free country where we can pursue the career we want without the fear or dangers experienced by drivers in the Middle East.
