Srinagar, Nov 27: The Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) is grappling with significant challenges due to a ban on its buses entering Srinagar. Since early November, the restriction has resulted in daily losses of approximately ₹2.5 lakh for the corporation and caused considerable inconvenience to commuters.
Senior officials at JKRTC said the ban was initially imposed to ease congestion during the first session of the assembly. However, even after the conclusion of the session, the ban remains in place, leading to ongoing financial losses. “We were told the restriction was temporary, just to manage traffic during the assembly session, but now it is affecting both the public and the corporation. We are losing lakhs, and commuters are struggling without our buses,” said a senior official from JKRTC .
A traffic police official, speaking on the condition of anonymity, clarified that the ban was in compliance with a High Court order. “We are just following the court’s directive. There are no personal issues with the JKRTC ,” the official explained. When asked about public dissatisfaction, the officer added, “During elections, buses were also out of service, but people did not face such a backlash then. Now, with the current situation, there are complaints.”
However, the JKRTC official raised concerns over a perceived disparity. While private operators continue to run within the city, government-run electric buses, which contribute to reduced congestion and pollution, remain sidelined. “Private buses are still allowed, but our fleet, already facing financial difficulties, is being penalized,” the official noted.
The losses are mounting daily, with JKRTC losing around ₹2.5 lakh each day due to the suspension of services. The financial strain is compounded as many regular commuters turn to private transport options. “We have about 100 buses currently grounded, and people are asking why they can’t use them,” the official added.
In response, JKRTC has written to the Inspector General of Police, Traffic, urging the authorities to lift the ban and allow buses to operate within the city. Managing Director (MD) Srangal pointed out that the buses were first restricted from entering the city on November 4, when the assembly session began. He noted that buses from the North sector are being stopped at Bemina Bypass, while those from the South sector are halted at Pantha Chowk, causing daily hardship for commuters.
