Bhiwandi: The long-pending Shahapur busport project, envisioned to improve passenger amenities and transform the region’s public transport infrastructure, continues to remain incomplete nearly seven years after receiving government approval. Despite the sanction of around Rs 5 crore and the completion of the foundation-laying ceremony, the project has failed to progress at the expected pace, leaving daily commuters, students, women and senior citizens facing considerable inconvenience.
Former MLA Pandurang Barora Seeks Minister’s Intervention
Former Shahapur MLA Pandurang Barora recently raised the issue with Maharashtra Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik, seeking immediate intervention to expedite the stalled construction. Barora urged the minister to direct the concerned officials to ensure that the project is completed without further delay.
The old Shahapur bus stand was constructed in 1978. After the structure became dilapidated and unsafe, the government approved the construction of a new busport in 2017. The foundation stone was laid in 2018, following which the construction contract was awarded to M/s Karda Company.
Contractor Completes Only 30% Work Before Project Is Reassigned
The work was initiated after the tender submitted at the lowest quoted rate was accepted. However, even after nearly eight years, the contractor could complete only around 30% of the project. Subsequently, the work was withdrawn from the agency and entrusted to a new agency.
Despite the change in the executing agency, the pace of construction has remained slow. A 24-month deadline was reportedly fixed for completion of the busport, but the project remains unfinished even after several times the stipulated period has elapsed.
Lack Of Dedicated Bus Route Adds To Market Area Traffic Woes
The demolition of the old bus stand has further compounded the difficulties faced by commuters. Passengers are currently forced to wait for buses under a temporary tin shed, offering little protection from heavy rain, scorching heat and strong winds. The poor condition of the temporary toilets provided for passengers has also triggered resentment among commuters.
Bus movement through market area causes traffic congestion
The absence of a dedicated access route for buses has created another problem. ST buses travelling to and from the Shahapur bus depot have to pass through roads in the market area, frequently resulting in traffic congestion.
Local residents have demanded an independent alternative route for buses, arguing that it would reduce traffic pressure on the busy market roads and improve overall traffic management in the area.
Transport Minister directs completion by December
According to Barora, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has directed officials of the construction department of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC), including Superintending Engineer Dinesh Mahajan, to ensure that the Shahapur busport project is completed by December 2026.
The directive has raised hopes among commuters that the long-delayed project will finally gain momentum. However, after years of delays and repeated setbacks, local residents are now waiting to see whether the project will actually meet the latest deadline.Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has given clear instructions to the concerned officials to complete the Shahapur busport work by December. Considering the difficulties faced by passengers for a long time, it is essential that the construction work is expedited.Pandurang Barora, former MLA Shahapur Assembly constituency.
To get details on exclusive and budget-friendly property deals in Mumbai & surrounding regions, do visit: https://budgetproperties.in/
