SRINAGAR: Several aspirants appearing for the Jammu Kashmir Services Selection Board (JKSSB) Junior Engineer (Civil) examination, scheduled on November 2, have urged the administration to postpone the test, citing traffic restrictions and movement difficulties due to the International Marathon being held on the same day in Srinagar.
In a written representation to the authorities, the candidates said the revised timing of the examination from 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM will make it difficult for many to reach their homes safely, particularly those travelling from distant districts.
“The marathon will lead to traffic restrictions in Srinagar. Many of us have to travel from Kupwara, Bandipora, and Anantnag. With the exam ending close to sunset, it will be difficult to return home the same day,” said an aspirant from north Kashmir.
Another candidate from Pulwama said that the situation would be especially tough for women candidates. “The authorities should have considered that daylight hours are shorter now. Many female aspirants and married women cannot travel back late in the evening,” she said.
The aspirants said they had approached the Controller and Secretary of JKSSB but were informed that the issue did not fall under their responsibility.
“We are confused about who is accountable for ensuring a fair and convenient examination process. The officials were aware of the marathon schedule, yet the timing was changed to a later slot,” said another aspirant.
The candidates have appealed to the Lieutenant Governor’s administration to look into the matter and direct the JKSSB to reschedule the examination to a more suitable date.
“With traffic restrictions already announced for the marathon day, we fear that many candidates may not reach the centres on time,” the aspirants said in their letter.
The JE (Civil) examination was earlier planned from 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM but was revised to 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM. The marathon is expected to cause movement restrictions across major routes in Srinagar during the day. (KNS).
