Residents, traders oppose reconstruction of Udangudi bus stand, suggest alternative site

Residents and traders have raised objections to the reconstruction of Udangudi bus stand here.

They argue that instead of reconstruction of the existing structure, the government should consider constructing a new bus stand in a nearby location, which would help to ease the growing congestion in the area.

Recently, the Udangudi town panchayat floated a tender for the reconstruction of the bus stand at a cost of ₹2.79 crore under the Kalaignar Urban Development Scheme. Following that, the town panchayat issued a notice a few days ago, instructing traders to vacate their shops in the bus stand within 15 days.

This has raised concern among residents and traders from Udangudi, who say the current structure is in good condition and is still capable of serving public needs for years to come.

V. Gunaseelan, a social activist from Udangudi, said the bus stand had undergone multiple developments in the past few years including construction of new public toilets, toilets for differently abled and replacement of dilapidated concrete roof with sheets. The bus stand spanned around 50 cents of land and rebuilding it at the same size and location would offer no real benefit to the public.

Also, it handled all types of bus services, including some private omni buses, which resulted in considerable congestion in the area. “Instead of reconstruction of the same facility, authorities should consider constructing a new larger bus stand, which can serve private omni buses and government buses to distant locations. This can also lead to a way to reduce the congestion in the area,” he added.

Rajesh (name changed), who runs an eatery in the bus stand for the past 14 years, said: “They issued a notice about 10 days ago, asking us to vacate the shops, but no temporary arrangements have been made for us.”

He added that every shop employed at least two workers, who relied on their income. “A fancy store near my shop recently invested ₹5 lakh in new stock. Who will bear the loss ,” he asked.

An official from Udangudi town panchayat told The Hindu that the present bus stand was constructed in the 1990s, and major renovation work was carried out between 2016 and 2017. However, recent reports submitted by a government institution highlighted the need for reconstruction, citing concerns about structural quality.

Traders’ unions had requested more time until the completion of Kulasekarapattinam Dasara festival. A final decision would be taken after a consultation meeting scheduled for this week, the official added..