Lorry driver thanks cops manning NH 544 in Thrissur with white roses

Thrissur: Just as dawn broke over the national highway at Muringoor, a lorry pulled over by the roadside and the driver stepped out with a handful of white roses. “This is for you,” he told the police officers on traffic duty. “Every time I passed through here, I saw the hardships you endured. I brought these flowers to thank you. Please accept them as a mark of my respect.”

Before the surprised officers could respond, the driver handed the remaining flowers to K S Varghese, an employee at Rocky Tyres nearby. “Give these to the next shift,” he said, climbed back into his lorry, and drove off without waiting for thanks or recognition.

Later that morning, Rocky Tyres owner Rocky Vadakkumpadan passed on the flowers to Koratty Inspector Amrutanjan and his team, including Athirappilly ASI N R Shaiju, who were on duty during the next shift. He also conveyed the driver’s message of appreciation. “This is a beautiful moment,” said Inspector  Amrutanjan. “It’s an honour to the entire police force for their months-long, tireless service.”

For the past six months, police personnel have maintained a constant presence at Muringoor and Pongam, regulating traffic on the congested NH 544. During peak hours, they divert vehicles through alternate routes to ease the flow. Since April, the system has been streamlined with more manpower. Three officers now man each point, working across four shifts daily. A total of 24 personnel from nearby stations and camps are deployed along the Muringoor–Pongam stretch.

Often, these officers work without breaks, in blistering heat or pouring rain, sometimes without even an umbrella or a moment to relieve themselves. Beyond the physical toll, they also endure verbal abuse from frustrated motorists. And yet, amid the daily grind and chaos, a quiet act of kindness—white roses and a silent gesture—offered a rare moment of warmth and validation. The nameless driver’s simple gift spoke volumes: that grace still exists in the world.