GANDERBAL: Transport Commissioner Vishesh Mahajan on Wednesday reviewed transport preparedness for the forthcoming Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra during a visit to Sonamarg and Baltal, stressing the need for safe, efficient and hassle-free transportation facilities for pilgrims.
The Transport Commissioner was accompanied by Regional Transport Officer Kashmir Qazi Irfan, Assistant Regional Transport Officer Ganderbal Anis Ahmed and other officers of the Transport Department.
During the visit, Mahajan chaired a meeting of stakeholders, including officers of the Transport Department, Traffic Police, transport operators and representatives of other concerned agencies, to review preparations for the annual pilgrimage.
He directed officials to ensure that only roadworthy and fully fit vehicles are deployed for Yatra duties and called for timely inspection and fitness certification of all vehicles proposed to be engaged during the pilgrimage. He also stressed that drivers assigned to Yatra duties must possess valid credentials, adequate driving skills and familiarity with the route, traffic regulations and emergency response protocols.
Taking note of complaints regarding overcharging by transport operators, the Transport Commissioner directed strict adherence to the notified fare structure and warned that any violation would invite stringent legal action.
Mahajan also reviewed vehicle availability and instructed transport operators to maintain adequate fleet strength, including reserve capacity, to meet any increase in pilgrim traffic during the Yatra period.
As part of the visit, he inspected the Motor Vehicles Department Enforcement Post at Sonamarg and reviewed enforcement and facilitation measures being implemented by the department. He directed field officers to maintain effective surveillance and ensure strict compliance with safety and regulatory norms.
Parking management also figured prominently during the review. The Transport Commissioner directed the earmarking of adequate parking spaces in coordination with the Traffic Police and other agencies. He also reviewed the proposed technology-based parking management system and emphasised effective use of a dedicated mobile application for allocation, monitoring and management of parking slots to minimise congestion and ensure smooth vehicle movement.
Reiterating that pilgrim safety remains the foremost priority, Mahajan called for close coordination among all stakeholders to ensure reliable transport services, efficient traffic management, adequate parking facilities and prompt assistance to pilgrims throughout the Yatra period.
Senior officers of the Transport Department and representatives of various stakeholder agencies attended the meeting and accompanied the Transport Commissioner during the inspection.
