Mini bus drivers decry route diversions

Srinagar, Nov 2: A wave of concern is sweeping through Srinagar’s private transport community as they decry route closures and frequent diversions over the years, saying this has hit their livelihood.

They said the issue has disrupted passenger life across Srinagar and the adjoining areas.

In a conversation with Greater Kashmir, the Kashmir Transport Welfare Association general secretary Sheikh Muhammad Yousuf said that the constant diversion within city traffic routes has left them struggling for survival.

Sheikh said that hundreds of vehicle owners who once formed the backbone of Srinagar’s mobility network are now unable to earn enough to feed their families, repay bank loans, or keep their vehicles operational.

“When the condition of our industry is already unstable, authorities have closed several of our important routes. We have borrowed money from banks to keep our vehicles on the road, but with these frequent closures and diversions, we hardly earn enough to feed our families, let alone pay off loans.” Sheikh said.

He said the number of private passenger vehicles operating within Srinagar city has drastically declined over the years. “In 2006, nearly 1,800 minibuses were plying in the city. Today, that number has fallen to around 800, and even those are constantly targeted with new restrictions. It feels like we are being pushed out of existence,” he said.

The transporters allege that the authorities have extended and altered traditional routes, unnecessarily increasing distances. While citing an example, he said the Lal Chowk–Soura route was earlier 12 kilometres, but now it stretches to 17. “This wastes fuel, increases travel time, and puts extra financial burden on both transporters and passengers.” He added.

He said frequent changes to minibus routes, sometimes after every month, have left commuters frustrated. Meanwhile, passengers complain that minibuses often drop them halfway, forcing them to take auto-rickshaws or other modes to reach their destinations. “It’s become an everyday struggle. The buses no longer ensure city centre connectivity, and we end up paying double for a single journey,” said Mohsin, a passenger.

Transporters point out that while their smaller vehicles are being restricted from entering the city centre, large e-buses continue to operate freely through Srinagar’s congested areas. “These e-buses are much bigger than our minibuses, yet no one stops them. Everyone knows they are running at a loss, but they are still allowed to ply, while we who serve thousands daily are being sidelined.” Sheikh added.

Traders in Srinagar’s commercial hubs, including Lal Chowk, Residency Road, and Hari Singh High Street, said the diversions have also hit their business. “Footfall has dropped drastically over the past few years. Earlier, mini buses used to drop passengers at the station. Since the new traffic plans came into effect, shoppers find it difficult to reach city markets, and this has driven customers away to other areas.” Farhan Kitab, president of the Regal Chowk Traders Association, said.

Transporters said they had always served the public faithfully, even during years of political unrest. “We have worked in the public interest when no one else was willing to operate. But now, we are left to fend for ourselves. All we ask for is hassle-free access to all routes, including city areas,” Sheikh said.

The Association urged the administration to re-examine the issue so that their livelihood is ensured.