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Srinagar, Jun 12 (UNI) Jammu and Kashmir government today announced 14 per cent increase in transport fare, Transport Minister Hakeem Mohammad Yaseen said today.

Talking to reporters here this afternoon he said the transporter were demanding 40 per cent increase in the fare following increase in the petroleum products.

However, after several rounds of negotiation, it was agreed to increase the fare by 14 per cent, he said adding that an agreement to this effect was signed with the striking transporters.

The leaders of striking transporters were also present at the press conference.

Mr Hakeem said the government agreed to increase the fare keeping in view into consideration the tourist season and annual Amarnath pilgrimage.

The tourists and pilgrims of Vaishnodevi were the worst hit due to strike.

Meanwhile, the Kashmir Citizen Council general secretary Imdad Saqi has criticised the increase in the fare.

He called the 14 per cent increase in the fare as unjustified.

The transporters are on chaka jam for the past four days in the state.

UNI BAS BDP GC1854