Srinagar: Residents of Drugmulla in Kupwara district staged a protest against the proposed relocation of the Assistant Regional Transport Office (ARTO), arguing it would harm the local economy.

According to a statement by Kashmir Media Service, the demonstration saw participation from both locals and traders, who expressed concerns over the ARTO office’s essential role in their economic activities. The protesters criticized the office’s attempted overnight move on Sunday, which they termed abrupt and without justification.

Zubair Ahmed, a local resident, voiced suspicions regarding the plan to shift the office to another private building in Kupwara, questioning the motives behind the relocation. He highlighted the significance of the current office, which has served the community from its existing location for years.

A member of the District Development Council in Drugmulla also opposed the relocation effort, calling on authorities to step in and prevent such moves.

In response to the growing unrest, the Additional Deputy Commissioner and Tehsildar of Drugmulla visited the site to address the concerns of the demonstrators. They assured that any relocation would only occur for valid reasons and following thorough consultation with the community.

Following these assurances, the protesters dispersed but warned that further actions would be taken if their concerns were not adequately addressed in future relocation attempts.