JAMMU, May 26: The Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department has launched a strict enforcement drive to ensure reservation of seats for women and specially abled passengers in all public service vehicles operating across the Union Territory.
According to an official circular issued by the office of the Transport Commissioner, transport operators failing to comply with the reservation norms may face suspension or cancellation of permits. Authorities stated that previous directives regarding reserved seating were not being implemented effectively, causing inconvenience to vulnerable passengers.
The department has instructed Regional Transport Officers and enforcement squads to conduct surprise inspections in buses, minibuses and other passenger vehicles. Drivers and conductors have also been directed to display proper signage indicating reserved seats.
Officials said the initiative aims to improve accessibility, safety and dignity for women, elderly citizens and persons with disabilities travelling through public transport systems in urban as well as rural areas.
Transport authorities observed that overcrowding and lack of enforcement often resulted in reserved seats being occupied by unauthorised passengers. Several complaints were reportedly received from commuters regarding harassment and denial of access.
The latest directive mandates strict compliance under the Motor Vehicles Act and related passenger welfare regulations. Public transport operators have been warned that repeated violations may attract financial penalties and disciplinary action.
Civil society groups and disability rights activists welcomed the move, saying accessible transportation remains a major challenge in many districts of Jammu and Kashmir. They urged the administration to further improve infrastructure by introducing low-floor buses and better bus-stop facilities.
Women commuters in Jammu and Srinagar also expressed support for the enforcement campaign, noting that reserved seating often helps improve safety during peak travel hours.
The department is additionally considering the installation of CCTV systems and GPS monitoring in commercial passenger vehicles to improve accountability and passenger security. Officials said technology-based monitoring may be introduced in phases depending on budget allocations.
Transport experts believe the strict enforcement drive could encourage greater discipline among operators and improve public trust in the transport system.
Authorities have appealed to passengers to cooperate with enforcement teams and report violations through designated helpline numbers.