Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology, and Science & Technology, Satish Sharma, today chaired a comprehensive meeting with the representatives of transport associations and unions of Kashmir Division to discuss a wide range of issues concerning the transport sector and deliberate on measures aimed at ensuring a balanced, sustainable and people-centric transportation system across Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by senior officers including Secretary, Transport; Commissioner, Srinagar Municipal Corporation; Transport Commissioner; Director Finance, Transport Department; Additional Secretary, Transport Department; Regional Transport Officer Kashmir; Joint Director Planning & Statistics, Transport Department besides representatives of various transport associations and unions from Kashmir Division.
During the meeting, the representatives of transport bodies projected several demands, grievances and operational concerns being faced by the private transport sector. Detailed deliberations were held on issues relating to public transport operations, Smart City bus services, J&K RTC operations, traffic management, transport regulations and livelihood concerns of private transport operators.
The representatives expressed concern over the proposed procurement of buses for free public transport services in Jammu & Kashmir. They said that any large-scale expansion of government-operated free transport facilities should be undertaken in a balanced manner so that the livelihood and functioning of private transport operators are not adversely affected. They also highlighted the adverse impact of the free travel facility for women in Smart City buses on the sustainability and financial viability of private transport services operating across the region.
Another major issue highlighted during the meeting was the operation of transport vehicles registered outside Jammu & Kashmir. The representatives demanded that strict regulations should be enforced to restrict unauthorized operation of outside-registered vehicles within the region in accordance with the existing laws and regulations, so as to safeguard the interests of local transport operators.
The transporters further demanded that Smart City buses should operate strictly within the notified municipal limits of Srinagar city and should not be allowed to operate beyond designated areas in a manner that affects the functioning of private transport services.
Taking note of the concerns raised, the Minister directed that a Committee headed by the Chief Executive Officer, Srinagar Smart City Corporation Limited, shall examine the issue relating to the extension of routes beyond the municipal limits of Srinagar city and submit appropriate recommendations.
To streamline transport operations and avoid route conflicts, the representatives also called for framing and implementation of a proper and coordinated timetable mechanism involving Smart City buses, J&K RTC buses and private transport vehicles operating in the twin cities.
A detailed discussion was also held on the increasing number of e-rickshaws operating in Jammu & Kashmir. The representatives urged the Government to formulate a comprehensive policy for regulated and limited registration of e-rickshaws to ensure organized growth of the sector. They suggested adoption of the principle of “one person, one registration” and demanded that multiple registrations in the name of a single individual should not be permitted.
The issue regarding enhancement of Green Tax by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways (MoRTH) also came up for discussion during the meeting. It was decided that the matter would be examined in detail by the concerned authorities.
While discussing the concerns and demands raised by the transporters, the Minister assured the participants that the Government is committed to address the genuine concerns of all stakeholders through a transparent, practical and consultative approach.
The Minister stated that the Government fully recognizes the contribution of the transport sector towards public mobility, employment generation and economic activity in Jammu & Kashmir. He emphasized that while the administration is focused on strengthening affordable and efficient public transportation facilities for the common people, equal importance would be given to protect the interests and livelihoods of local transport operators.
Satish Sharma further said that all grievances and demands projected during the meeting would be examined sympathetically by the concerned departments and appropriate action would be taken strictly in accordance with the rules, feasibility and public interest.
The Minister stressed the need for better coordination among various transport agencies and directed the concerned officers to work closely with all stakeholders to resolve operational issues related to Smart City buses and other transport services in a time-bound manner.