Srinagar transporters protest arbitrary route closures, say livelihoods at stake
Srinagar: Transporters in Srinagar, Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir, staged a protest against the closure of several traditional routes and diversion of major roads, accusing the occupation authorities of jeopardizing their livelihoods through arbitrary and unilateral decisions.
According to Kashmir Media Service, members of the Kashmir Transport Welfare Association said that the new traffic restrictions have crippled the already struggling private transport sector, leaving hundreds of families on the verge of financial collapse.
Association General Secretary Sheikh Muhammad Yousuf told the media that routes such as Pampore, Narbal and Budgam have been abruptly closed. “Our industry is already under immense pressure, and now these measures have further destroyed our means of livelihood while making travel unbearable for ordinary commuters,” he said.
He revealed that the number of private passenger vehicles operating in Srinagar has declined sharply from around 1,800 in 2006 to less than 800 today. “Every few days, new restrictions are imposed. The few remaining vehicles are targeted, while routes are unjustifiably extended — like the Lal Chowk–Soura route stretched from 12 to 17 kilometres — wasting fuel and time,” he added.
Another transporter, Mukhtar Ahmad, said the suspension of private services has left commuters, students and patients stranded for hours. “Public transport is insufficient, and people are suffering immensely. The administration must restore our traditional routes immediately,” he said.
Transporters said that the ongoing clampdown on private transport is part of a deliberate attempt to weaken local operators and promote alternative services backed by the authorities.
