Ajay Sharma
Reasi, December 29
Persistent overloading of tourist buses and smaller vehicles ferrying pilgrims in Reasi district posed serious road safety risks, particularly on routes connecting Katra, Reasi, Pouni, Bambla, and the famous Shiv Khori cave shrine.
According to sources, vehicles operating between Reasi and destinations like Pouni, Bambla, Lehtar, and Shiv Khori are routinely packed beyond capacity throughout the day.
“Common vehicles include Tata Winger, which is designed for 8-9 passengers but carrying 12-13, Tempo Travellers, with capacity of 10-11 seats but loaded with 13-15, and mini-buses like Tata 407, with capacity of 12-13 seats are accommodating 20-25 people,” shared sources, adding that these routes, winding through hilly terrain, see heavy traffic from pilgrims visiting Shiv Khori, a revered Lord Shiva cave shrine that attracts lakhs of devotees annually, often in combination with trips to Mata Vaishno Devi in Katra.
Sources asserted that the major cause and reason for the rampant violations is the inadequate enforcement by the Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO) Reasi.
“Despite occasional checks and fines in the past, violations continue unchecked,” said sources, adding that possible leniency due to local connections influencing operations.
Meanwhile local residents have called for “zero tolerance” enforcement drives, particularly on key stretches like the Pouni-Bambla road, proposing regular checkpoints even a few days a week to deter drivers.
If sources are to be believed, in absence of proper enforcement by ARTO, sand mining dumpers and other heavy vehicles are plying on these routes with additional weight, which is also violation of the law.
“Bikers are also seen riding rash and fast bikes on these routes, in absence of proper check by the authorities, which is also cause of concern on these routes,” said sources, adding that if only for two days a week, ARTO lays naka on theseh routes, the menace would be eradicated.
Despite multiple attempts, ARTO was not available for comments.
