With the annual Shri Amarnath Yatra set to commence on July 3, the administration and the Transport Department have intensified preparations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free pilgrimage for devotees. RTO Jammu Jasmeer Singh stated that special measures are being implemented to provide safe and transparent transportation services to pilgrims arriving from across the country.
Speaking about the preparations, he said that the department’s primary responsibility is to ensure that all vehicles engaged in the pilgrimage are roadworthy and safe. Buses and other vehicles operating from the Bhagwati Nagar Base Camp to various Yatra routes will undergo thorough fitness inspections before being allowed to transport pilgrims.
The RTO highlighted that complaints of overcharging by transport operators are often reported during the pilgrimage season. To address this issue, the administration has introduced strict measures this year. Fare lists for e-autos, auto-rickshaws, e-rickshaws, matadors, and buses operating from Jammu to Katra, Baltal, and Pahalgam will be prominently displayed across the city.
Large hoardings displaying approved fares will be installed at key locations, including Jammu Airport, Railway Station, Bhagwati Nagar Bus Stand, Riverfront registration and token centers, and other major public places. The initiative aims to ensure that pilgrims are fully aware of the official fares and are protected from being overcharged.
In addition, the Motor Vehicles Department and Traffic Police have prepared between 10,000 and 15,000 fare-list stickers, which will be distributed free of cost to operators of e-autos, e-rickshaws, auto-rickshaws, and matadors. Displaying the fare list inside vehicles will be mandatory.
Issuing a stern warning, RTO Jasmeer Singh said that vehicles found operating without the prescribed fare list will face strict action and may be seized on the spot. Since the stickers are being provided free of cost, operators will not be given any excuse for non-compliance.
He further informed that joint enforcement teams comprising officials from the Transport Department, District Administration, Traffic Police, and District Police will remain active throughout the Yatra period. Any instance of overcharging or violation of transport regulations will invite immediate action.
The RTO emphasized that the objective of these measures is to ensure a transparent, safe, and convenient transportation system for pilgrims, enabling them to undertake the Shri Amarnath Yatra without facing unnecessary difficulties or exploitation.
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