The Saga of KSRTC Bus Stand - Udupi

The Saga of KSRTC Bus Stand - Udupi

Mangalore Today News Network

Udupi, May 19, 2014: Former Minister of State for Transport R Ashoka raised hopes of the people of Udupi and beyond with a promise to have an exclusive KSRTC bus terminal near Bananje in Udupi the temple town.

The estimate was said to be about ten crore. It is now stated that this promise has taken shape in the only fact that KSRTC has sent a routine proposal to Govt. on a three acre plot at Bananje. The land price is still at the negotiation stage with the Lokopayoga (PWD)  in whose possession the land is said to be.

At present the lack of a proper bus stand causes no end of inconvenience and lack of security to the traveling public, particularly since Udupi is a famous tourist and pilgrim hub. The present make shift bus stand is far too small and provides no amenities to long distance travelers who need rest-rooms, cloak rooms and  food courts. The present stand is ill maintained and unhygienic without even proper seating.

The Mangalore KSRTC divisional controller,  states the Bananje Bus stand  rests with the Govt. and the plans, finance etc.,  have to be sanctioned. He adds that if PWD hands over the land to KSRTC the construction may be allowed. All concerned agree on the urgent need for a District HQ like Udupi.

The existing KSRTC Bus Stand is City Municipal Council Complex (CMC) built over a decade ago by KUDC project, only three to four Buses can fit at present and KSRTC pays a token fee to CMC for maintaining the space which is in  a deplorable condition and is shameful for this reputed temple and pilgrim centre. How will Karnataka get it’s share of tourists if basic infrastructure is absent?