Passengers suffer as Kendrapara bus terminal development project yet to take off

Resentment is now brewing among passengers and local residents over the tardy progress of the Kendrapara bus terminal project. Though the old bus stand was demolished in the name of re-development, the project hangs in balance. Lack of basic amenities like drinking water and others at Kendrapara bus terminal has now compounded the miseries of scores of passengers here.

Extreme heat conditions have now forced the passengers to take shelter at the verandah of several roadside stalls and shops as the existing restroom allegedly remains locked.

“Kendrapara is a district but there is no proper bus stand or drinking water facilities,” said a passenger, Bachaspati Mandal.

Even, there is no provision of drinking water at the site causing numerous problems for the passengers here, alleged a local.

Hiramani Rout, a local resident said, “Provision for drinking water is a must, especially during summer; but it's not there. There is also no place to take shelter in the scorching heat. We want to know what development is taking place in Kendrapara.”

Earlier, toilets, shops and other infrastructure were razed for the bus terminal re-development project for which a detailed project was prepared at an estimated cost of Rs 6 crore.

" The rest room is locked and other articles have been stashed inside. There is no place to sit for the passengers,” alleged an autorickshaw driver.

Bipada Ranjan Das, a local resident said, “The bus stand was demolished and the passengers are suffering as the re-development project has not taken place so far. Kendrapara has been neglected for several reasons.”

Besides, it is alleged that the 21 shops of the transport department inside the bus stand complex are yet to be allotted.

Meanwhile, Deba Prasad Bal, officer of Kendrapara Municipality blamed the works department for the delay. “R&B was earlier taken up the project, and Rs 6 crore tender was issued. Only after we discuss the matter with the concerned authorities, we can say anything,” said Bal.