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Overcharging, overloading a routine affair at sumo stand Putushai Lolab, Locals suffer 

Junaid Dar 

Kupwara, July 01: Residents and daily commuters from Kupwara to Putushai and surrounding areas are raising serious concerns over the ongoing issues of overcharging and overloading by drivers at the Sumo Stand in Putushai, Lolab. Commuters are being charged Rs. 30 for a distance of 9 km from Kupwara to Putushai and Rs. 30 for a 7 km journey to Cherakoot Lolab, while those traveling to Surigam (10 km) are being charged Rs. 40. 

Despite these charges, drivers are reportedly overloading their vehicles by seating four passengers on the middle seat and sometimes accommodating up to 11 passengers in a vehicle designed for 9. This practice not only causes discomfort to passengers but also raises safety concerns.

“We are being charged Rs. 30 per passenger, yet the drivers are overloading the vehicles, squeezing four passengers into the middle seat. This is not only uncomfortable but also unsafe,” said a daily commuter Raja Manzoor.The residents urge the Assistant Regional Transport Officer (ARTO) Kupwara to address these issues promptly. They hope for a resolution that will ensure fair pricing and safe travel conditions for all passengers, allowing them to commute without distress.