Bus terminals inaugurated by previous BJD govt in Odisha lie defunct despite massive investments

In a bid to enhance travel experiences, new bus terminals have been erected in some parts of Odisha, offering amenities such as waiting areas, ticket counters, and restrooms. These facilities, costing several crores, were promptly inaugurated by the previous Biju Janata Dal (BJD) administration prior to the last elections. Nevertheless, these bus stands are yet to be used effectively.

However, the newly-built bus terminals in Semiliguda and Kotpad in Koraput district, along with Kolnara in Rayagada district, still remain non-operational. Despite the hefty investments, these bus terminals have seen little to no use, sitting uncared for and empty. 

The Semiliguda bus stand, located along National Highway 26, was inaugurated by former Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik in March before the last general election. Nonetheless, it is yet to commence operations, causing buses to occupy highway spaces, leading to traffic congestion.

“The bus terminal is of no use. It was constructed with a huge amount of investment only for photo shoots,” rued Dilip Kumar Khara, a resident of Semiliguda.

“The bus stand has been built with an investment of Rs 4 crore. However, due to the change in government after the last general election, the bus stand could not become operational,” said Sunabeda Municipality BJD Councillor, Mamata Roy.

Local residents have expressed their dissatisfaction regarding the non-utilisation of these facilities. The bus stand at Kotpad, constructed at the cost of two crore rupees, shares the same predicament. Inaugurated ahead of the elections, it remains dormant over a year later, with buses resorting to a temporary stand at Gandhi Chowk on NH 326.

The Kolnara bus stand, situated 13 kilometres from the district’s headquarters, also remains unused, with passengers still forced to wait by the roadside.

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“The bus stand in Kolnara has been constructed in a hurried manner because of the election. However, it is of no use,” rued Kameswar Ganta, a resident of Kolnara.

In response, Koraput district Collector V Keerthi Vasan said, “Some design modifications are necessary for the Semiliguda bus stand. The engineers have already conducted surveys to address this. There are hopes to operationalise the bus stand soon after the change in the design of the gate.”