BuzzBytes Srinagar, November 28-

Daily commuters from south and north Kashmir find themselves in a predicament as a sparse number of State Road Transport Corporation (SRTC) buses operating in their regions exacerbate the challenges of overloading restrictions.
Passengers from Tral, Awantipora, Pulwama, Kulgam, Bandipora, Safapora, Sumbal, Hajin, and other areas voiced their grievances, highlighting the inadequacy of buses in their regions. The limited availability of buses, combined with strict adherence to overloading restrictions, has left commuters stranded during emergencies.
Commuters, particularly those traveling between Tral and Srinagar, expressed frustration as conductors and drivers, following directives, deny boarding to passengers beyond the seating capacity. The shortage of buses relative to passenger demand creates a daily struggle for those dependent on this mode of transportation.
A passenger from Pulwama echoed similar concerns, emphasizing the need for an increase in SRTC buses to accommodate the volume of passengers effectively. While acknowledging the importance of adhering to overloading regulations, passengers urged authorities to address the growing gap between available buses and the commuting population’s needs.
Speaking to a bus driver, it was revealed that they face constraints in carrying more passengers due to strict overloading regulations. The fear of potential repercussions from traffic police discourages them from accommodating additional passengers.
Discontented passengers urged authorities to find a solution to the issue. They proposed either an increase in the number of buses to meet demand or a reconsideration of overloading regulations, taking into account the commuters’ urgent needs.
As the issue lingers, commuters hope for a thoughtful resolution that strikes a balance between passenger safety, transportation efficiency, and the exigencies of those dependent on SRTC buses in the region.