RTO Kashmir adds more routes for minibus operators in Srinagar

Srinagar, Mar 25: In a bid to streamline the public transport movement system, Regional Transport authorities on Saturday said they have added more routes under the route integration plan for minibus operators in Srinagar.
Regional Transport Officer (RTO) for Kashmir Syed Shahnawaz Bukhari said that under the route integration plan, they had added more integrated routes for the convenience of commuters in Srinagar.
“Under the route integration plan, we have added direct bus service from Chadoora to Soura,” he said, adding, “We are also adding the services from Panthachowk to Soura as well.”
Bukhari said they have already started the services on these routes but that there is a less flow of passengers as many people use their personal vehicles for travel. “We have extended the route integration plan and service timing as well, and in a new change, our last bus leaves at 6:50 pm from Budgam station towards Hazratbal,” he said.
RTO Kashmir said that with the introduction of the route integration plan, they are now working on the route numbering system. “We reassure the people that public transport will be available on the notified routes as long as people want to avail,” he said.
“Even if anybody from Chadoora belt wants to offer Taraweeh prayers at Dargah Hazratbal, just give me a signal, and I will run the bus. That is not an issue for me. Transport is available and it is up to the people if they want to avail it or not,” he said.
Bukhari also said that they are likely to add the integrated bus service for Nishat Bagh to Soura Buchapora as well.
The authorities at RTO Kashmir earlier this month while rationalizing the bus service in Srinagar clubbed many routes in a single route and allocated minibus operators with a specific route number.