Applicants Seek Fixed Schedule, Timely Communication and Smooth Delivery of Transport Services
Wani Touseef
GANDERBAL, SEPTEMBER 16 : Repeated postponement of driving tests at the Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO), Ganderbal, has left several applicants and transporters facing inconvenience, prompting calls for corrective measures and better coordination by the concerned authorities.
According to applicants, driving tests and other transport-related services have been affected by frequent schedule changes and delays, forcing some people to make repeated visits to the office.
The issue gained attention after the driving tests scheduled for September 15, 2026, were reportedly postponed due to technical reasons. Applicants said such last-minute changes create difficulties, particularly for people arriving from distant and remote areas of Ganderbal district.
Those affected said they incur additional travel expenses, lose working hours and face unnecessary inconvenience when scheduled services are deferred after they have already reached the office.
Transporters and applicants have urged the authorities to establish a clear and predictable schedule for driving tests, along with an effective mechanism to communicate any changes to applicants well in advance.
They also sought improved coordination within the ARTO office and timely dissemination of information through appropriate channels, so that applicants can plan their visits accordingly.
The applicants have appealed to senior transport authorities to examine the matter and ensure that driving tests and other essential public services are conducted according to a transparent schedule.
They said a reliable, applicant-friendly and accountable system would help reduce repeated visits and ensure smoother delivery of transport services to the public.
