Srinagar, Oct 6 :The disappearance of evening transport services from Jahangir Chowk to Nowgam in Srinagar city has thrown the lives of commuters into chaos, sparking widespread frustration and discontent. Long queues of men and women can be seen at various bus stops, from Jahangir Chowk to Bakshi Stadium, waiting in vain for public transportation.
The alarming scarcity of buses has created a lucrative opportunity for auto-rickshaw drivers, who are exploiting the situation by charging exorbitant fares, leaving passengers with no choice but to shell out heavy sums.
"We are forced to pay Rs 200-300 for a ride that should cost Rs 50-100," said a commuter adding that it is unbearable, especially for daily wage earners and students.
Employees are among the worst affected, struggling to find transportation to reach home during evening hours. "I have missed dinner multiple times, waiting for a bus that never arrives," said a government employee adding that It is humiliating to beg for rides from colleagues or pay outrageous auto fares.
A couple of people said that the lack of effective regulation by authorities has enabled transporters to dictate terms, disregarding the needs of the common people. "Transporters are calling the shots, and the administration seems oblivious to our suffering," they said.
They demanded the iImmediate restoration of evening transport services, strict regulation of auto-rickshaw fares, increased frequency and reliability of public transportation and accountability from transport authorities.
As the situation continues to deteriorate, commuters are losing patience. "We urge the authorities to intervene and restore our right to affordable, reliable transportation," said a frustrated commuters