Baramulla, July 29 : Jammu and Kashmir Transport Secretary Avny Lavasa, IAS, conducted a surprise inspection of the ARTO office in Baramulla on Wednesday, reviewing the functioning of the Motor Vehicles Department and the delivery of public services in the north Kashmir district.
During the visit, the Secretary as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) inspected all sections of the office, evaluated the status of pending applications, and assessed the progress of online transport services being rendered through the Vahan and Sarathi portals. She issued on-the-spot directives to the officials to ensure prompt disposal of cases and maintain transparency in all procedures.
Speaking to reporters later, Lavasa said the department is working proactively to address technical glitches affecting the online portals. “Necessary instructions have been issued to reduce pendency and streamline the service delivery mechanism. Our focus is on ensuring that citizens do not face any inconvenience,” she said.
The Transport Secretary urged maximum utilisation of the department’s digital services, stressing that the government aims to provide seamless, faceless, and hassle-free services. “Citizens need not make unnecessary trips to transport offices if they avail the online facilities being strengthened across the UT,” she added.
Acknowledging that delays continue to exist in certain cases, Lavasa said regular field-level reviews are being conducted to identify and remove bottlenecks. “Improving digital governance and ensuring faster disposal of applications is a top priority for the department,” she asserted.
Responding to queries about staff shortages, the Secretary informed that all vacant posts have been referred for recruitment. “The process will be completed at the earliest while adhering to the principles of transparency and fairness,” she assured.
The surprise inspection, the Secretary said, is part of the government’s sustained effort to monitor performance, enhance accountability, and strengthen public service delivery mechanisms across Jammu and Kashmir. (KNS)
