India-Pakistan Tensions: HRTC Suspends Night Bus Services on Amritsar, Pathankot, and Jammu Routes

Shimla, May 10: In light of rising tensions between India and Pakistan and security alerts issued for border areas, the Himachal Road Transport Corporation (HRTC) has temporarily suspended all night bus services to sensitive routes including Amritsar, Pathankot, Jammu, and Katra until further notice. The decision has been taken as a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety.

Following intelligence inputs indicating a possible aerial threat to Chandigarh, HRTC has also suspended entry of its buses into Chandigarh starting Friday. Buses bound for Delhi and other long-distance destinations will now be rerouted via Zirakpur.

According to HRTC officials, the risk of drone or missile attacks from across the border has made nighttime operations in these areas unsafe. In addition, the number of passengers traveling on these routes has dropped significantly. The decision to halt services was made after evaluating both safety and operational viability.

Day Services to Continue with Precautions

Daytime services to Amritsar, Pathankot, and Jammu will continue as usual but will operate strictly under local administrative and security guidelines. HRTC has urged travelers to stay updated through official channels when planning their journeys and to make alternative arrangements where necessary.

Pilgrims heading to the Mata Vaishno Devi shrine may also face inconvenience, as buses to Katra will now only run as far as Jasur, near the Himachal border. Travelers will need to arrange their own transport beyond that point.

Advisory for Chandigarh Route

Meanwhile, passengers traveling to or through Chandigarh are advised to remain vigilant and check for real-time updates via the HRTC website or their nearest bus station to avoid disruptions or delays.