SRINAGAR: In a bid to facilitate the movement of worshippers, the Srinagar Smart City Limited (SSCL) authorities have announced special transport arrangements for Shab-e-Qadr and Eid-ul-Fitr.
According to the authorities, e-bus services will operate on priority routes to ensure seamless mobility for worshippers attending prayers at major mosques and shrines in Srinagar.
Dr Owais Ahmed, CEO of Srinagar Smart City, said that transport services will be extended till late hours on Shab-e-Qadr (the 27th night of Ramadan), covering routes passing through Jamia Masjid Srinagar, Dargah Hazratbal, and other significant mosques.
“We have ensured that public transport, especially Smart City e-buses, will be available till late hours on Shab-e-Qadr, allowing worshippers to travel conveniently. This service will be in place across major locations where night-long prayers are held in Srinagar,” Dr Owais said.
He further said that routine transport services will continue on Jumat-ul-Vida (the last Friday of Ramadan), and additional special transport services are planned for Eid-ul-Fitr. On the day of Eid, e-buses will be deployed in the morning to assist people in reaching congregational prayer sites in Srinagar.
“We will ensure that people do not face transportation issues on Eid morning. More buses will be available in the early hours to facilitate smooth travel to prayer sites. After the prayers, services will be adjusted based on need and demand,” he said.
In addition to transport arrangements, Dr Owais Ahmed, who is also the Commissioner of Srinagar Municipal Corporation (SMC), said that extensive sanitation and water supply measures have been implemented to ensure a clean and comfortable environment for worshippers.
“Dedicated teams have been deployed at mosques, working in coordination with local mosque committees to maintain hygiene and provide necessary assistance,” he said.
Sanitation workers will remain on duty at major religious sites, ensuring cleanliness before and after gatherings. Special provisions have also been made for the repair and maintenance of washrooms at mosques, while backup water tankers have been arranged to address any shortages.
Meanwhile, the decision to extend transport services has been welcomed by locals, who believe it will significantly ease late-night travel during Shab-e-Qadr and facilitate smooth commuting on Eid-ul-Fitr.
A senior SMC official stated that with these measures in place, Srinagar Smart City and SMC aim to provide a seamless and convenient experience for the public, ensuring that devotees can fully participate in the spiritual and festive occasions without difficulties. (KNO)
