J&K Transport Dept Forms Special Teams to Check Exorbitant Fares at Fruit Mandis

Srinagar, Sep 17: The Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department has taken strong note of complaints against transport companies accused of charging exorbitant fares from fruit growers and mandi traders. To address the issue, the department has directed the formation of Special Enforcement Teams across Kashmir Division.

In an official communication issued by Joint Transport Commissioner Vikas Anand (JKAS), Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir and all Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOs) have been instructed to conduct frequent and surprise inspections at major fruit mandis. The move aims to ensure that fruit growers and sellers are not harassed or subjected to unjustified transport fares.

The enforcement teams have been asked to submit daily compliance reports to the Transport Commissioner’s office. Additionally, a dedicated enforcement team led by ARTO Mauzam Ali in Srinagar has been tasked to cover two districts per day and take immediate action in case of complaints.

The directive comes amid mounting concerns from fruit growers and traders who alleged exploitation by certain transport companies during the peak trading season. (KINS)