JKRTC bus service launched for Shri Machail Mata Yatra pilgrims from Kishtwar

KISHTWAR, June 15: Deputy Commissioner Kishtwar Pankaj Kumar Sharma flagged off a dedicated Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation bus service from the Deputy Commissioner Office Complex Kishtwar to assist devotees attending the ongoing Shri Machail Mata Yatra.

The bus service will operate along the Kishtwar–Padder–Machail route, ensuring smooth and reliable transportation for the growing number of pilgrims visiting the holy shrine.To manage the heavy rush of devotees, the transport service will follow a specific weekly schedule.

From Friday to Sunday, the bus will run on the Gulabgarh–Machail route, offering a safe and affordable travel option for pilgrims during peak weekend days. From Monday to Thursday, the vehicle will ply the Kishtwar–Gulabgarh–Chishoti route, which aims to improve public transport connectivity for local residents and daily commuters in the region.

Deputy Commissioner Pankaj Kumar Sharma highlighted that the pilgrimage is experiencing a massive influx of visitors this season. He explained that the dedicated transport service was introduced in direct response to the increasing demand for transport options, expressing confidence that it will ease the journey to the shrine and enhance connectivity to the remote parts of the Padder area.

Additional District Commissioner Pawan Kotwal, Tehsildar Mohd Rafie Naik, ARTO Tasleem Wani, and JKRTC Manager Ravinder Sharma were also present at the launch alongside other officials.