SRINAGAR: The Government of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday ordered the annual Darbar Move of offices from Jammu to Srinagar for the Summer Season 2026, issuing a comprehensive schedule and guidelines covering closure, reopening, transport, security, and administrative arrangements.
As per Government Order No. 786-JK(GAD) of 2026 dated April 15, offices observing a five-day week will close in Jammu on April 30 after working hours, while six-day week offices will shut on May 2. All offices are scheduled to resume functioning in Srinagar on May 4.
The order states that offices moving as part of the camp will carry up to 33 percent of their staff strength or a maximum of 10 employees, whichever is lower. The Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) has been directed to arrange adequate bus services on May 1 and May 3, with advance ticket booking beginning April 20.
Each convoy will be supported with a crane, two empty buses, and mobile workshops to handle any breakdowns during transit. The Jammu and Kashmir Police will provide security escorts and ensure smooth passage through key tunnels, including the Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel and Banihal-Qazigund Tunnel.
Medical aid stations will be set up along the route at Jhajjar Kotli, Udhampur, Chenani, Ramban, Ramsu, Banihal, and Qazigund, with directions issued by the Health and Medical Education Department.
Employees have been instructed not to occupy government or municipal accommodations without proper allotment, though they may retain Jammu residences for family use under prescribed conditions. Ration facilities will also be made available in Srinagar for employees participating in the move.
A uniform Special Move Travelling Allowance of Rs 25,000 has been approved for eligible employees completing the move within the stipulated timeframe, while April salaries will be released in advance on April 29.
During the move period, leave will be granted only in exceptional cases, with up to three days of special casual leave permitted for Jammu-based employees opting out. The General Administration Department will operate the Summer Secretariat in Jammu, while departments have been directed to detach attached staff by April 27.
Accommodation arrangements in Srinagar will follow established procedures. Upon reopening, office timings in Srinagar have been fixed at 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM for the Civil Secretariat and attached departments, and 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM for other offices operating on a six-day week.
