Transport strike hits Kashmir as operators protest smart City bus expansion

Srinagar, April 20: Daily life and traffic movement in parts of Kashmir, including Srinagar, were disrupted on Monday as transporters observed a strike against the proposed expansion of Smart City bus services to district routes.

The protest saw private transport operators, including bus, Sumo, and Tavera drivers, staying off the roads, while sit-ins were held at various bus stands across the Valley.

The agitation reflects growing concern within the transport community over the impact of the Smart City bus expansion on their livelihoods.

Protesting operators said the extension of government-backed bus services to district routes could threaten the income of thousands of families dependent on private transport.

They demanded that the government roll back the decision, citing uncertainty and potential loss of business for private operators.

While public transport services were affected due to the strike, private vehicles continued to ply normally, limiting the overall disruption in the city.

The situation remained largely peaceful, with protests confined to designated locations and no reports of major law and order issues. [KNT]