IIOJK Transporters Await Rs 200 Crore in Dues from 2024 Amarnath Yatra

As preparations begin for the 2025 Amarnath Yatra, transporters in IIOJK are still struggling to recover payments promised for services rendered during last year’s Hindu pilgrimage—raising serious concerns over trust and survival.

Transporters in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) are voicing serious concerns over unpaid dues totaling more than Rs 200 crore for services provided during the 2024 Amarnath Yatra. Despite earlier assurances of full payment within 15 days after the pilgrimage ended, transporters say they haven’t received a single rupee—even eight months later.

Thousands of vehicles were arranged through the Regional Transport Office (RTO) IIOJK to support the yatra’s security and logistics. These same vehicles were also used during the Assembly elections. Now, the people who supplied them say they’re caught in a financial nightmare.

“We are under immense financial pressure,” said one of the transporters. “We borrowed money to purchase these vehicles. Without payment, we’re unable to pay off loans, and banks are threatening to seize our assets.”

The crisis is not just affecting business. It’s now taking a toll on families. Several transporters have revealed they are struggling to pay for basic necessities, including school fees for their children. The frustration is growing, as many have been making desperate rounds to government offices, only to be met with silence or empty promises.

The transporters are especially angered by the idea that they might be asked to provide vehicles for the upcoming 2025 Amarnath Yatra, scheduled for June, when their previous contributions have gone unrewarded. “It is grossly unfair,” said another transporter. “How can we be expected to support this year’s yatra when we’re still waiting for last year’s dues?”

In a united appeal, the transporters have called on the Home Department to step in and ensure immediate release of payments. They argue that this issue is not just about a financial transaction but about basic livelihood and survival.

“We did our duty with honesty and trust. Now, we’re being punished for it,” said one of the aggrieved. “All we ask is what was promised to us. This isn’t charity—it’s our right.”

The matter highlights not only the financial mismanagement but also the deep-rooted neglect faced by local service providers in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir. With another major event on the horizon, these unresolved payments have created tension and mistrust between the transport community and the administration.