To take stock of the problems confronting the Transporter’s and driver community, Minister for Transport, CA&PD, Qamar Ali Akhoon today visited the Southern Bus Stand at Pantha Chowk.
The Minister went round the bus stand area and inspected various blocks there..
In order to mitigate the problems on the spot, Akhoon convened a meeting with the officers of Transport Department, Srinagar Municipal Corporation and Srinagar Development Authority (SDA).
The Minister was informed that Rs. 10 crore have been spent on the development of the bus stand till date out of estimated cost of Rs. 20 crore by the SDA. He was told that out of 116 workshops constructed for general trades 44 have been allotted sofar in favour of deserve ones.
To provide basic amenities to the transporters, drivers as well as commuters, the Minister directed SDA officers for restoration of power supply to the bus stand within 10 days on priority. He also asked them to make two water tankers available till the permanent arrangement of drinking water is made for the convenience of the public and the staff.
It was decided to initiate steps for mecadamization of the bus stand and ensure its completion by end of September this year.
Akhoon stressed upon the officers to maintain the stand properly and take care of its atmosphere. He asked for formulation of projects for providing drinking water on permanent basis, disposal of garbage and construction of boundary walls.
The Minister asked the transporters to help the Government in maintenance of the bus stand properly. He also asked for the proper utilization of space earmarked for buses and other vendors in the stand.
The Minister was accompanied by Transport Commissioner, Dr. Syed M. Fazalullah, OSD Transport, S. A. Laharwal, Joint Commissioner Works, Srinagar Municipal Corporation, Raina, Xen SDA, Showkat Ahmed, Joint Director Planning H&U, Shabir Ahmed, chairman, KMDA, Mohammad Yaqoob Ronga and other senior officers of SDA, and Transport departments.
