Jammu Offices to Close from April 30; Extensive Arrangements for Transport, Security, Allowances and Staff Movement Finalised
Srinagar, Apr 15 :
The Government of Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday ordered the annual Darbar Move of offices from Jammu to Srinagar for the Summer Season 2026, outlining a detailed schedule for closure, reopening, transportation, security, and administrative arrangements.
According to Government Order No.786-3K(GAD) of 2026 dated April 15, as per news agency Kashmir News Corner — KNC, offices observing a five-day week will close in Jammu on April 30 after office hours, while those following a six-day week will close on May 2. All offices are scheduled to reopen in Srinagar on May 4.
As per the order, offices moving in camp will carry only 33 percent of staff strength or a maximum of 10 officials, whichever is less. The Jammu and Kashmir Road Transport Corporation (JKRTC) has been directed to provide sufficient buses on May 1 and 3, with advance ticketing starting from April 20.
The order further states that each convoy will be accompanied by a crane, two empty buses, and mobile workshops to address any breakdowns en route. J&K Police will escort the convoys and ensure priority passage through key tunnels, including the Dr. Syama Prasad Mookerjee Tunnel and Banihal-Qazigund Tunnel.
Healthcare arrangements will be made along the route at multiple places including Jhajjar Kotli, Udhampur, Chenani, Ramban, Ramsu, Banihal, and Qazigund, with necessary instructions to be issued by the Health and Medical Education Department.
Employees have been instructed not to occupy government or municipal accommodations without proper allotment, though they may retain Jammu accommodations for family use under prescribed conditions. Ration counters will also be established in Srinagar for move employees.
A uniform Special Move Travelling Allowance of Rs 25,000 has been sanctioned for employees undertaking the move within the stipulated timeline, while advance salary for April will be drawn on April 29.
The order also specifies that leave during the move period will be granted only under exceptional circumstances, with three days of special casual leave allowed for Jammu-based employees opting for it.
The General Administration Department will establish the Summer Secretariat in Jammu, while all departments have been directed to detach attached staff before April 27. Accommodation arrangements in Srinagar will be handled as per past practice.
Office timings upon reopening in Srinagar have been fixed from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM for Civil Secretariat and departments within its premises, and from 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM for offices outside, observing a six-day week. (KNC)