Ganderbal, Dec 13: Residents of Gund village in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, have urged the government to reinstate the Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) bus service that once operated between Gund and Srinagar.
The service, which was operational a few years ago, played a crucial role in the daily lives of locals, including traders and employees. Its sudden discontinuation has left the community facing significant challenges.
According to locals, the JKRTC bus provided a reliable and affordable means of transportation, especially for shopkeepers traveling to Srinagar to procure essential goods and for government employees commuting to their workplaces. The early morning bus service was particularly beneficial for those without private vehicles, ensuring timely travel and reducing dependence on expensive alternatives.
The Traders Union Gund highlighted that the service, operational until about four to five years ago, had brought significant convenience to the area. “The bus was deployed on a limited schedule, yet it catered to the needs of the people effectively. However, its abrupt withdrawal has left us struggling,” said a member of the union.
Locals are now appealing to the government to reinstate the service to alleviate their transportation woes. “Reintroducing the JKRTC bus on this route will not only benefit locals but also employees working far from their homes. It is a vital necessity for our community,” they said.