Srinagar, Oct 27 (JKNS): MLA Ajaz Jan sought clarification in the J&K Assembly regarding the temporary withdrawal of JKRTC bus services from the Haveli constituency, particularly during cross-border shelling and Operation Sindhoor, and the reasons for redeployment of buses to other areas.
In a written response, the Transport Minister as per news agency JKNS, stated that JKRTC regularly operates buses on the Jammu-Poonch route, serving Haveli constituency continuously. However, due to cross-border shelling, the service was temporarily suspended for one week and restored immediately afterward.
The Minister added that two buses were provided on May 10, 2025, specifically to shift affected residents to safer zones. JKRTC also facilitated the movement of stranded passengers to their hometowns in coordination with the District Administration, Poonch.
During Operation Sindhoor, a total of 58 buses were deployed across various districts to transport stranded passengers returning from neighboring states. The deployment was as follows, Poonch with 2 buses, Mendhar with 1 bus, Rajouri with 3 buses, Jammu with 4 buses, Bishnah with5 buses, Akhnoor/Khour with 11 buses, Srinagar with 2 buses, it reads.
Doda with 14 buses, Kishtwar with 11 buses, Paddar/Nagsani with 1 bus, Bhaderwah with 4 buses.
The Minister clarified that routine Jammu-Poonch bus services continued except for the one-week suspension during the emergency, after which normal operations resumed.
“The temporary disruption was necessitated by security concerns, and JKRTC ensured prompt assistance to affected residents while maintaining coordination with the district administration,” the statement added. (JKNS)