Passengers traveling from Srinagar to Kupwara decry double charging by sumo drivers

Srinagar: The passengers travelling from the either sides of highway from Srinagar to north Kashmir’s Kupwara district here have expressed their resentment against the Sumo drivers, saying they are being charged for the belongings they carry.
The passengers told a news gathering agency KNS in Srinagar that the Sumo drivers are charging fare of a passenger for the belongings they carry while travelling.
“A passenger is being forced to pay double fair for carrying a bag or other belongings,” they said, urging the authorities concerned to look into the matter so that they could heave a sigh of relief.
Regional Transport Officer (RTO) Kashmir, Ikramullah Tak told KNS that the Sumo vehicles have turned into load carriers here as they are being seen carrying goods on the roof tops of their vehicle. “No passengers should be charged extra fare in case he is carrying any belonging with him,” he said.
However, he said he will direct all Additional Regional Transport Officers (ARTO) to take stringent action against the Sumo drivers found violating the norms.