IMRAN SHAH
Kishtwar,DD, The Office of the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Kishtwar has officially released a revised fare list for passenger transport vehicles operating on various routes connecting Kishtwar, Marwah, Warwan, and adjoining areas, including Inshan and Nowpachi. The fare chart has been issued under S.O Notification No: 97 dated 19th March 2021, and is aimed at curbing the rampant issue of overcharging in these remote regions.
The fare structure includes detailed rates for 6-seater, 7-seater, and 11-seater vehicles, covering over 19 routes. For instance, the fare from Nowpachi to Kishtwar via Banihal is fixed at ₹1265 for a 6-seater, ₹1084 for a 7-seater, and ₹690 for an 11-seater vehicle.
Notably, routes like Inshan to Kishtwar (via Banihal and Synthan), Nowpachi to Inshan, Inshan to Gowran, and others also feature in the comprehensive list, providing clear fare benchmarks to ensure transparency.
Strict Enforcement Measures: The ARTO, Mr. Tasleem Javaid (JKAS), has directed all drivers and transporters to mandatorily display the fare list on the windscreen of their vehicles. The notification warns that any case of overcharging will attract strict penalties, including the suspension or cancellation of the driver’s license and the vehicle’s permit.
Furthermore, transporters have been instructed to refrain from overspeeding, overloading, and misbehaving with passengers. Violation of these directives may lead to criminal liability, including the lodging of FIRs and initiation of legal proceedings.
This move has been welcomed by locals who have long demanded regulation of fares and better monitoring of passenger services in these far-flung regions.
The ARTO’s office has circulated copies of the order to the Transport Commissioner J&K, Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar, and the SHO Police Station Inshan/Marwah for necessary compliance and monitoring.DD
