SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir has 1,617 operational post offices covering the vast expanse of 120,355 square kilometres. This translates to an average of 74.43 square kilometres served by a single post office.
However, the Government clarified that the practical reach of these post offices extends to a radius of approximately 4.86 kilometres on average, factoring in their accessibility, the government said in Lok Sabha today.
In a response presented in the Lok Sabha, the Government highlighted the steps being taken to improve postal services in remote areas of Jammu and Kashmir, addressing the significant geographical challenges in the region. The discussion stemmed from a question about the adequacy of post offices in such regions and their ability to effectively meet the population’s needs.
Acknowledging the pressing need for enhanced services, the Government reported that 34 new post offices had been established in Jammu and Kashmir during the financial year 2023-24. These additions are part of an ongoing initiative to expand postal infrastructure in remote and underserved regions, including unbanked areas where access to financial and postal services is critical.
Officials emphasised that the establishment of new post offices is a continuous process, guided by specific norms to identify and address areas where accessibility remains a concern. By focusing on such expansions, the Government aims to bridge gaps in service delivery and ensure that even the most remote regions of Jammu and Kashmir are better connected through postal, financial, and insurance services.
