Udhampur, Jan 15,: Public transport services remained suspended in Udhampur and Reasi districts on Thursday as transporters observed a complete chakajam against the government decision to conduct vehicle fitness services in Jammu.
Buses, mini-buses, taxis, and Sumos stayed off the roads, causing widespread inconvenience to passengers, particularly those intending to travel to Jammu. Several stranded passengers in Udhampur told the news agency Kashmir News Trust that they were unable to find any public transport, leaving them with no option but to continue their journeys.
Transporters said the strike was a result of the authorities failing to revoke the order despite repeated warnings. One transporter stated that they had already conveyed their objections to the government, but no corrective action was taken, forcing them to resort to a strike.
According to the transporters, the recent directive issued by the transport department requires vehicle owners from Udhampur and Reasi districts to travel to Jammu for fitness certification. They questioned the rationale behind the decision, stating that fitness services were earlier available within their respective districts.
The transporters maintained that compelling them to travel to Jammu for routine fitness checks adds unnecessary financial burden and logistical difficulties. They demanded that fitness services be restored locally in Udhampur and Reasi, as was the practice in the past.
Normal life in both districts was partially disrupted due to the shutdown of public transport, with locals facing difficulty in commuting for work, medical needs, and other essential purposes. No official response from the transport department was available at the time of filing this report. [KNT]
