PDP Criticizes move, say let ARTO first ensure parking slots
Imran Shah
Kishtwar, (TDD)In a significant move to address the growing issue of traffic congestion and improper parking in Kishtwar, Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Muhammad Saleem has launched a crackdown on vehicles parked incorrectly across the town.
The enforcement drive aims to improve traffic flow, reduce congestion, and ensure better management of public spaces. However, this initiative has sparked criticism from local leaders, particularly PDP’s Sheikh Nasir, who has raised concerns about the effectiveness and fairness of the approach.
Sheikh Nasir pointed out that while cracking down on illegal parking may appear to be an immediate solution, it is crucial to first identify and develop proper parking spaces within the town before penalizing vehicle owners. He noted that many areas in Kishtwar, especially along key stretches such as from Kuleed Chowk to Maliipeth, lack designated and adequate public parking spaces. Despite the presence of some parking areas, these are either underutilized or poorly marked, leading to confusion and continued illegal parking.
“First, we need to create proper parking spaces and develop infrastructure to accommodate the increasing number of vehicles in the town,” said Sheikh Nasir. “Once these spaces are in place, only then should challans for wrong parking be issued. Without proper planning, this crackdown may not yield the desired results and could lead to inconvenience for the public.”
The PDP leader emphasized the need for a more structured approach to traffic management in Kishtwar, suggesting that parking problems could be resolved by better urban planning and infrastructure development. He highlighted the importance of identifying key areas for public parking, ensuring that they are strategically located to serve the needs of commuters and reduce pressure on crowded roads.
While the crackdown on improper parking is intended to improve the overall traffic situation, Sheikh Nasir’s concerns underscore the broader issue of urban infrastructure in Kishtwar. As the town continues to experience growth, the demand for well-planned parking solutions becomes increasingly urgent. Effective long-term solutions will require collaboration between local authorities, urban planners, and the public to create a balanced system that addresses both enforcement and infrastructure needs(TDD)
