JAMMU, Jun 18: The Tempo Traveller Owners Union on Thursday announced the implementation of an 18 per cent increase in passenger fares, citing the rising cost of fuel and other operational expenses. The announcement was made during a press conference held at the Union’s Head Office at Gho Adda, near MLA Hostel on B.C. Road, Jammu.
Addressing the media, Union President Kali Das Verma and Chairman Kamal Kumar said that although the Government had approved the fare revision earlier, the Union had refrained from implementing the increase in view of the interests of the travelling public. However, they said the continuous escalation in diesel prices, maintenance costs, insurance charges and other operational expenditures had made it difficult for operators to sustain their services without revising fares.
The Union leaders stated that the revised fares would now come into effect and appealed to passengers to cooperate with transport operators who are struggling to cope with increasing expenses.
The Union also raised concerns over the operation of Tempo Traveller vehicles from outside Jammu through certain travel agencies. They urged travel agents and tour operators to extend preference to locally registered vehicles, stating that such support would help safeguard the livelihoods of local transporters and vehicle owners who depend on the sector for their income.
Highlighting the challenges faced by the transport industry, the Union representatives said that Jammu’s transport sector has already been adversely affected by rail connectivity to Kashmir, which has significantly reduced passenger traffic and business opportunities for local operators.
With the annual Shri Amarnath Ji Yatra approaching, the Union extended a warm welcome to pilgrims visiting Jammu and Kashmir. The office bearers appealed to yatris to avail transport services from vehicles affiliated with recognized local unions, assuring them of safe, reliable and organized travel during the pilgrimage season.
The Union also expressed concern over what it described as false and misleading statements being made against the organization by certain individuals. Clarifying its position, the Union leadership stated that any person having a genuine grievance or complaint against the organization should approach the competent administrative authorities for proper examination and redressal rather than resorting to misinformation.
Reaffirming its commitment to serving the public, the Tempo Traveller Owners Union said it would continue working for the welfare of transport operators while ensuring quality transportation services for passengers and pilgrims visiting the region.