Srinagar, Dec 16 (KNO): The Regional Passport Office (RPO) in Srinagar is witnessing a daily footfall of nearly 500 applicants, which reflects the increasing efficiency of the passport application process in Kashmir and Ladakh.
Regional Passport Officer (RPO) Davinder Kumar said there have been improvements in the system that have reduced the waiting period, adding that appointments are now scheduled for the day after an application is submitted.
Speaking exclusively with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) at his office, RPO Davinder Kumar said, “We are handling around 500 appointments daily, and most applicants complete their formalities on the same day.”
He said that just a few years ago, the appointment cycle at the passport office was about three months. “Now, once an applicant applies, we give them a next-day appointment at the office,” the officer said.
Elaborating on the streamlined process, RPO Kumar said, “Once the formalities are completed, we process the application on the same day and forward it to the police, CID, and other departments for verification. The issuance of the passport then depends on these verifications.”
He added that in cases where there are no issues with verification or documentation, passports are issued within 15 days.
To address public grievances, the RPO said, “I have instructed staff and security to allow people with issues or grievances to meet me directly.” He said applicants facing document-related problems or delays are guided on how to resolve them efficiently.
"The improvements in processing time and the focus on resolving grievances are aimed at ensuring a seamless and applicant-friendly experience at the Srinagar Passport Office," Kumar added—(KNO)