Shahapur Busport Project Gets December 2026 Deadline

The Shahapur busport project, which aims to improve passenger amenities and public transport infrastructure, has been stuck for nearly seven years despite receiving government approval. The project was sanctioned with around Rs 5 crore and the foundation-laying ceremony was completed, but it has failed to progress at the expected pace.

Former 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 and became dilapidated and unsafe, prompting the government to approve the construction of a new busport in 2017. The foundation stone was laid in 2018, and the construction contract was awarded to M/s Karda Company. However, the contractor could only complete around 30% of the project before it was withdrawn and entrusted to a new agency.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.

The demolition of the old bus stand has further compounded the difficulties faced by commuters, who are currently forced to wait for buses under a temporary tin shed. The poor condition of the temporary toilets provided for passengers has also triggered resentment among commuters.

The absence of a dedicated access route for buses has created another problem, with ST buses travelling to and from the Shahapur bus depot having 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.

According to Barora, Transport Minister Pratap Sarnaik has directed officials of the construction department of the Maharashtra State Road Transport Corporation (MSRTC) to complete the project by December 2026. This new deadline aims to bring an end to the long-pending project and provide relief to daily commuters, students, women, and senior citizens who have been facing considerable inconvenience.

The Shahapur busport project is a crucial infrastructure development project that aims to improve the public transport system in the region. The project's completion will not only provide better amenities to passengers but also help reduce traffic congestion in the market area.

The Maharashtra government's decision to set a new deadline for the project is a welcome move, and it is expected that the project will be completed within the stipulated timeframe. The completion of the project will bring relief to the people of Shahapur and surrounding areas, who have been waiting for a long time for a modern and efficient public transport system.

In conclusion, the Shahapur busport project has been stuck for nearly seven years, but with the new deadline set by the Transport Minister, there is hope that the project will be completed soon. The project's completion will have a significant impact on the public transport system in the region and will provide better amenities to passengers.