JAMMU, May 24: The Jammu and Kashmir Transport Department has issued strict directions mandating reservation of seats for women and specially-abled persons in all Public Service Vehicles operating across the Union Territory, warning transport operators of strict action, including suspension or cancellation of permits, for any violation.
According to Circular issued by the office of the Transport Commissioner, authorities observed that previous instructions regarding reservation of seats for women and persons with disabilities were not being implemented properly by permit holders and vehicle operators, causing inconvenience and hardship to the intended beneficiaries.
To ensure uniform implementation and safeguard the interests of women and specially-abled passengers, the Transport Department has reiterated detailed instructions for immediate compliance.
As per the circular, seats numbered 1 to 12 in big buses and seats numbered 1 to 9 in medium and mini buses shall remain exclusively reserved for women and specially-abled persons. The reservation has been declared mandatory and part of the official permit conditions governing operation of public transport vehicles.
The circular further states that all reserved seats must be clearly marked with the words “Reserved for Women and Specially-abled Persons” painted in bold and legible white letters either on the back of the seats or on the adjacent body of the vehicle to ensure visibility for passengers at all times.
Authorities said responsibility for proper display and compliance shall lie directly with the vehicle owner and operator.
The government clarified that in the absence of eligible passengers, reserved seats may be temporarily occupied by others, but such passengers must vacate the seats immediately once a woman or specially-abled person boards the vehicle during the journey.
The circular makes drivers and conductors personally responsible for enforcing the reservation policy inside vehicles without exception.
The Transport Department has also directed all enforcement agencies, including the Motor Vehicles Department and Traffic Police, to conduct regular inspections and special enforcement drives to ensure strict adherence to the instructions at bus stands, transit points and during routine vehicle checking.
The circular warned that non-compliance would attract legal action under the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, particularly Section 192A relating to violation of permit conditions. Penalties may include imposition of fines, suspension of permits and even cancellation of permits in case of repeated violations.
Regional Transport Officers (RTOs) and Assistant Regional Transport Officers (ARTOs) have been directed to verify compliance during vehicle inspections, issuance and renewal of fitness certificates and while processing permits. Any deviations noticed are to be acted upon immediately.
Meanwhile, Transport Commissioner Vishesh Paul Mahajan appealed to the public and transport operators to act responsibly and ensure safety and dignity of women and specially-abled passengers in public transport.
“Let us all decide to behave as true gentlemen and good citizens and ensure that not only we provide seats to our women and specially abled but make them feel safe and welcomed in public transport. It is our duty to help our fellow country-people,” he said.
