RTA reviews public transport scenario in Doda District

DC orders phasing out of outdated, unfit vehicles

DODA, APRIL 19: Deputy Commissioner Harvinder Singh today chaired the meeting of Regional Transport Authority (RTA) here in his office chamber to review and streamline public transport services in the district.

The meeting was attended by Senior Superintendent of Police Sandeep Kumar Mehta, ARTO Tasleem Wani and other officials from the stakeholder departments. The primary agenda was to enhance transport connectivity and ensure convenience for commuters, particularly in remote and hilly areas of the district.

The meeting scrutinized 41 fresh permit proposals and 39 applications for route changes or extensions. These included proposals under the “Mumkin” initiative, a key component of the Mission Youth program of the Jammu and Kashmir Government.

The ARTO presented a detailed classification of all proposed routes, based on road conditions, geographical feasibility, and public demand.

The DC directed to give priority to far-flung and hilly region routes, with approvals restricted to areas having blacktopped and motorable roads. It was also decided that all fresh permit applications shall be approved only after a comprehensive review and verification process. However, three new permit cases under the Mumkin scheme were approved at the meeting, marking another significant step towards youth empowerment and employment generation.

The Deputy Commissioner instructed ARTO to permit only those vehicles that are fit, roadworthy, and appropriate in size and capacity for high-altitude terrains. He further emphasized phasing out outdated and unfit vehicles while maintaining strict vigilance against unauthorized permits. .

The meeting concluded with a collective commitment to building a more transparent, accountable, and people-friendly transport system through regular monitoring and review mechanisms.