Transport Minister Satish Sharma Holds Talks with J&K Transporters, Assures Resolution of Long-Pending Issues
Key Issues Discussed: Transport Policy, Fare Revision, and Infrastructure Upgrades
||Black and White Digital News ||
||February 12,2025 ||
Jammu : In a crucial step toward addressing the grievances of transporters in Jammu and Kashmir, Transport Minister Satish Sharma held a high-level meeting with the All J&K Transport Welfare Association (AJKTWA) today. The meeting was attended by a delegation of transporters led by Chairman Karan Singh Wazir, who submitted a detailed memorandum outlining their long-standing demands.
The discussions primarily revolved around the formulation of a comprehensive transport policy, a long-pending demand that aims to regulate and modernize the transport sector. The delegation also urged the government to streamline the ongoing Smart City projects related to E-buses and E-Rickshaws, ensuring a well-structured operational timetable for seamless functioning.
Unresolved Fare Hike and Financial Struggles:
A major concern raised by the transporters was the non-revision of fares since 2021. Given the rising fuel prices, maintenance costs, and inflation, transporters are facing severe financial distress. The delegation emphasized that despite repeated requests, the pending fare hike has not been implemented, making it increasingly difficult for transporters to sustain their businesses.
Poor Infrastructure at Bus Stands and Parking Areas:
Another pressing issue was the dilapidated condition of bus stands and parking facilities, particularly the warehouse parking area, which lacks essential amenities such as washrooms and resting areas for drivers and cleaners. The transporters urged immediate action for infrastructure upgrades to improve working conditions.
Government’s Response and Assurances:
Transport Minister Satish Sharma, accompanied by Secretary Transport Niraj Kumar (IAS), gave a patient hearing to the transporters and assured them that their demands would be taken up with urgency. He committed to resolving pending payments and emphasized that the government fully supports the transport sector.
Sharma acknowledged the vital role of transporters in the country’s economy, stating that the present government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, is determined to address their issues and strengthen the transport industry.
Transporters Extend Support for Industry Growth:
Expressing gratitude, Chairman Karan Singh Wazir assured the Minister of the full support of the transport fraternity in transforming the sector into a well-regulated industry. He reiterated that transporters are willing to collaborate with the government to improve efficiency and ensure sustainable growth.
Delegation Members Present:
The meeting saw participation from prominent transport representatives, including President AJKTWA Vijay Singh Chib, Bharat Bhushan Sharma, Gurdeep Singh, Abdul Majid Gazzi, Yosuf Khandey, Kuldeep Singh, Ranjit Singh, Labh Singh, K D Singh, Niranjan Singh, Kamal Randhawa, Jugal Gandotra, Ram Prakash Sharma, Deepak Sharma, Inderpal Singh, Shah Mohammad Ali, Vijay Dogra, Rajkumar Choudhary, Jakatar Singh, and Nadeem Choudhary.
The meeting marked a significant step toward resolving long-pending demands, with expectations that the government will take swift action to support transporters in overcoming their financial and operational challenges.
