Lack of cab service in peak evening hours takes toll on passengers

Srinagar, Nov 16: Passengers traveling on multiple routes in the summer capital decried lack of cab service in peak evening hours.

A delegation of passengers from Uptown and Hazratbal outskirts said that they face immense issues during peak hours in the evenings.

“Despite the addition of more buses and other public transport to various areas, many areas are still neglected. We hope that authorities will ensure that all routes have adequate flow of cabs so that we don’t suffer,” said Asif Ahmad, a passenger from the uptown area of Srinagar.

Passengers said that among the routes, Hazratbal outskirts are most hit due to the lack of cab services during peak evening hours. They said that the cab service from Lal Chowk to areas like Wanihama, Danihama, Ahal, Chatrahama, Batapora, Tailbal, Mulphaq, Syedpora, and adjoining areas is nowhere to be seen during peak hours and after sundown.

“We have time and again raised the issue of cab service that runs from Exchange Road and Maisuma Sumo stand to our areas.  From the same Sumo stands, other areas have enough cab service but our areas are neglected. The cab service from Kashmir University to these areas is inadequate and needs enhancement,” said Adil Ahmad, a student.

The passengers said that as the days are getting shorter ahead of winter, their issue is getting worse. They said that in addition to the lack of cab services, the overloading is also taking a toll on them.

“Most of the cab operators fill the seats at the cab yard itself, leaving other passengers to fend for themselves. The passengers that have to board cabs at other junctions are left stranded, which causes huge inconvenience to them,” said another passenger.

Officials have been saying that they have pressed many public transport buses, including buses on various routes. However, passengers maintain that several routes have been neglected so far. They appealed to authorities to press more cabs and e-buses on these routes so that they don’t have to suffer ahead of winter.