Srinagar, May 08: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Information Technology, and Science & Technology Satish Sharma today chaired a comprehensive meeting with representatives of transport associations and unions from Kashmir Division to discuss key issues concerning the transport sector in Jammu and Kashmir.
The meeting was attended by senior officials including the Secretary Transport, Commissioner Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Transport Commissioner, Director Finance Transport Department, Regional Transport Officer Kashmir and representatives of various transport associations and unions.
During the meeting, transport representatives raised several operational concerns and demands related to public transport services, Smart City buses, J&K RTC operations, traffic management, transport regulations and livelihood issues faced by private transport operators.
A major concern highlighted by transporters was the proposed expansion of free public transport services in Jammu and Kashmir. Representatives stated that any large-scale expansion of government-operated transport should be undertaken in a balanced manner to safeguard the livelihood and sustainability of private transport operators.
They also expressed concern over the impact of free travel facilities for women in Smart City buses, saying it has affected the financial viability of private transport services across the region.
Another key issue discussed was the operation of vehicles registered outside Jammu and Kashmir. Transport representatives demanded strict enforcement of regulations to curb unauthorized operation of outside-registered vehicles in order to protect the interests of local transporters.
The representatives further urged that Smart City buses should operate strictly within the notified municipal limits of Srinagar and not extend beyond designated areas in a manner affecting private transport services.
Taking note of these concerns, the Minister directed the formation of a committee headed by the Chief Executive Officer of Srinagar Smart City Corporation Limited to examine issues related to route extensions beyond municipal limits and submit recommendations.
Discussions were also held on framing a coordinated timetable mechanism involving Smart City buses, J&K RTC buses and private transport vehicles to streamline operations and avoid route conflicts.
The increasing number of e-rickshaws operating in Jammu and Kashmir also came under discussion. Transporters demanded a comprehensive policy for regulated registration of e-rickshaws and suggested implementation of the “one person, one registration” principle to prevent multiple registrations under a single individual.
The issue of enhancement of Green Tax by the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways was also discussed, with authorities deciding to examine the matter further.
Addressing the gathering, Satish Sharma assured all stakeholders that the government remains committed to resolving genuine concerns through a transparent, practical and consultative approach.
He stated that the transport sector plays a vital role in public mobility, employment generation and economic activity in Jammu and Kashmir, and assured that while the government is focused on strengthening affordable public transport, equal importance would be given to protecting the interests of local transport operators.
The Minister directed concerned officers to maintain close coordination with stakeholders and resolve operational issues related to Smart City buses and other transport services in a time-bound manner.
