Neglect leaves J&K’s transport lifeline in ruins: JKTWA

Jammu, Aug 11: Chairman Jammu and Kashmir Transporters Welfare Association (JKTWA) Ajit Singh Monday rued, what he alleged, the government’s “neglect towards the transport sector, thus putting it in shambles despite its significant contribution to J&K’s economy.”

Taking a vow to champion the transporters’ cause, Singh said, “Although transport is the backbone of J&K’s economy, contributing nearly 9 percent to GDP and providing vast employment, the sector is in shambles due to long-standing neglect.

He was addressing the mediapersons at Press Club Jammu after announcing the formation of the All J&K Sleeper Bus Coach Owner Association.

“This landmark step brings all sleeper bus owners and related transporters under one roof for the first time,” he said while describing “inter-state sleeper coaches the lifeline of long-distance travel, vital for tourism, trade, and livelihoods.”

The newly structured association will be led by chairman Sudarshan Sharma and president Deepak Sharma, tasked with uniting members, addressing operational challenges and strengthening the sector’s role in J&K’s growth.

“Your fight is my fight, your problem is my mission, and your future is my responsibility,” Ajit Singh assured the members of the newly formed association besides other transporters.

“Today, we have planted the seed of unity. I will ensure it grows into a force the government cannot ignore,” he said.