THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The Kerala State Road Transport (KSRTC) bus station cum shopping complex building launched for the benefit of corporation and its passengers is now facing a major problem. The commercial complex was constructed by Kerala Transport Development Finance Corporation (KTDFC) on BOT (build, operate and transfer) basis. These complexes are launched at Thiruvanathapuram central, Angamally, Thiruvalla and Kozhikkode.
KSRTC has decided to use the ground floor of the complex, for their bus services. Based on the matter KSRTC has issued a letter to KTDFC, for sanctioning of buildings ground floor to the corporation. At present there are no agreements between KSRTC and KTDFC.
"No proper facilities are provided for passengers and station masters. The whole building is being used for commercial purpose only which is now a major problem as the shops act as a hindrance for passengers free movement. From the beginning of the project corporation has been excluded, as KSRTC is unaware of the profits and income made by the shopping complexes," said Tomin J Thachankkary, KSRTC CMD.
As the complex is being used completely for business purpose, KSRTC is unable to provide proper facilities for its passengers, said Thachankkary. Earlier, Thiruvananthapuram central bus station has bus parking bays for 70 buses. But, now after the launch of the project the number has been limited to 26. Similar issues have been observed in other three bus terminals of KSRTC. Our first priority will always be the comfort of our passengers, he said.
Following to be considered by KTDFC in their new contract. KSRTC should be informed about launching of new shopping complexes, daily income and profits earned by the shopping complex. Ground floor should be hand over to the corporation by evacuating the existing shops for corporation services. These services will include proper waiting room for passengers, facilities for station masters and commuters free flow from one bus bay to other.