Kishtwar:08/01/2025 ( By: Baber Farooq )
In response to the escalating traffic congestion stemming from unauthorized and disorderly parking on Kishtwar’s main roads, the District Magistrate issued a formal directive on November 27, 2024, designating several areas as “No Parking Zones.” These newly established no-parking areas encompass crucial locations such as the New DC Office Complex, the stretch from Zelna Road to Malipeth, Kuleed Chowk, and the route from Kishtwar to Girinagar. The order mandates strict enforcement by the SSP Kishtwar, ARTO Kishtwar, and local traffic authorities.
In a concerted effort to uphold this directive, ARTO Kishtwar, alongside the Kishtwar Police and traffic authorities, initiated an aggressive campaign against parking violations, particularly during the bustling morning and evening rush hours. As a result, numerous vehicles have been penalized for infractions within the designated no-parking zones, leading to a noticeable uptick in fines issued to drivers.
However, the enforcement of these new regulations has sparked significant criticism from residents, social activists, and political leaders alike. Many argue that the underlying issue lies in the insufficient parking infrastructure available in Kishtwar. Advocate Sheikh Nasir voiced his concerns over the ongoing penalization of vehicle owners, contending that the administration should prioritize the identification and development of adequate parking facilities throughout the town. He pointed out the glaring absence of designated parking zones in pivotal areas, such as the stretch from Kuleed Chowk to Malipeth, asserting that imposing fines without offering viable alternatives is both unjust and disruptive to daily commuters.
Social activist Syed Shakir Siddiqui echoed these sentiments, calling upon the district administration to focus on establishing proper parking facilities as a primary concern. He emphasized that Kishtwar possesses several potential locations suitable for the creation of parking zones, which could significantly mitigate the parking predicament. Syed Shakir underscored the importance of infrastructure development preceding enforcement actions to foster a fair and practical resolution for the community.
The concerns raised by these stakeholders illuminate the essential need for a balanced approach that effectively addresses both traffic management and the urgent demand for parking infrastructure in Kishtwar. Residents remain hopeful that the administration will take these suggestions into account and implement measures to foster a more organized and accommodating environment within the town, ultimately enhancing the quality of life for all its inhabitants.
