Emergency access to the hospital blocked; residents demand organised traffic management
Suhail Rather
Bandipora, July 13 (KNS) : The proliferation of illegal auto-rickshaw stands in Bandipora town has triggered growing concern among residents and prompted action from the local administration, with the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) on Saturday promising the removal of all unauthorised stops “within a day or two.”
Key locations, including the District Hospital Bandipora, Main Chowk, Kaloosa, and areas near the State Bank of India, have become congested due to the rise in unregulated pick-up and drop-off points.
The most alarming situation persists outside the District Hospital, where parked autos often block access routes for ambulances and emergency vehicles.
“The stand outside the hospital has become a nightmare. Ambulances have been stuck, and this puts lives in danger,” said Mohammad Suhail, a shopkeeper at Main Chowk. Echoing the concern, Tahira Jan, a resident of Kaloosa, noted, “We are not against auto drivers earning their livelihood, but there has to be order. It’s chaos right now.”
The situation has led to demands from social activists and civil society for immediate action. In response, ARTO Bandipora Mudasir Ahmad (JKAS) issued a strong statement on Saturday.Click Here To Follow Our WhatsApp Channel
“We are aware of the illegal auto stands that have mushroomed across the town. These not only violate transport norms but also endanger public safety. Strict action will be taken, and all such stands will be removed within the next couple of days,”
Assistant Regional Transport Officer, Bandipora, he added that Illegal auto stands functioning anywhere shall face stern actions and all such stands shall be removed within the next couple of days.
He added that the stand near the District Hospital will be cleared on a priority basis. “In healthcare, every second counts. Blocking hospital access is a serious public concern, not just a civic violation,” he said.
Citizens have called for a coordinated strategy involving the Municipal Committee, Traffic Police, and Transport Department to demarcate designated auto stands, enforce parking rules, and carry out awareness drives for drivers and commuters.
Meanwhile, officials have appealed to the transport unions, auto drivers, and residents to cooperate with the administration in restoring order and ensuring smooth movement on key routes. (KNS)