Transport Commissioner Issues Order to Ensure Public Safety.

||Black and White Digital News ||

||Parvinder Singh July 09,2024 ||

In a decisive move to enhance road safety and regulate public transport operations, the Transport Commissioner of Jammu and Kashmir has issued an order banning night services of stage carriage buses. This decision follows multiple reports and complaints regarding the unauthorized operation of night services by public transport operators, particularly between Jammu, Srinagar, Doda, Kishtwar, Ramban, Rajouri, and Poonch.

Concerns Highlighted by Deputy Commissioners:

Several Deputy Commissioners, who also chair the Regional Transport Authorities (RTAs), have raised concerns over this practice, noting its severe implications.

Key issues include:

Safety Hazards: Operating buses at night without adhering to the approved timetable poses significant risks, potentially leading to fatal road accidents.

Unhealthy Competition: The unauthorized night services foster unhealthy competition among transport operators, which can compromise both passenger safety and service quality.

Directive for Strict Enforcement:

The Transport Commissioner’s order mandates all Regional Transport Officers (RTOs), Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOs), and other relevant officials to strictly enforce this ban. The night services for passenger vehicles are now restricted from 10:00 PM to 5:00 AM, with exceptions only for emergent circumstances. Any deviation from these instructions will be met with stringent consequences.

Public Interest and Special Drives:

To curb the unauthorized night operations, the RTAs in each district, led by the District Development Commissioners, are instructed to organize special drives. These initiatives aim to address and reduce the prevalence of these dangerous practices, ensuring the wider public interest is served.

This ban on night services is a proactive measure by the Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department to mitigate risks associated with road travel at night and ensure the safety and well-being of passengers. By enforcing these regulations, the authorities aim to maintain a more orderly and secure public transport system.