GUWAHATI: The newly built bus stand at Christian Basti, located just 50 meters from an older, dilapidated one, has triggered criticism over its purpose and planning. The situation has left commuters and local shopkeepers questioning the rationale behind having two bus stands so close to each other.
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Taking to X, J Barua, a user, wrote, “It seems the only purpose of the new bus stand at Christian Basti is to display LED hoardings, while the old dilapidated bus stand remains just 50 meters ahead. Guwahati has become a city of hoardings.”
Talking to GPlus, Ritu Das, a regular commuter in Christian Basti said, “Every day, I struggle to figure out where the buses will stop. Sometimes they halt at the old stand, and sometimes at the new one. It wastes time and is very inconvenient."
Local shopkeepers in the Christian Basti area have expressed dissatisfaction with the new bus stand, highlighting its adverse impact on their businesses. According to them, the presence of two bus stands just 50 meters apart has created confusion among commuters, which, in turn, has affected footfall in the surrounding shops.
"Earlier, passengers would stop at the older bus stand and visit our shops while waiting for their buses. Now, with the new bus stand so close, people are unsure where to board or alight. This confusion has reduced the number of customers we get," said a shopkeeper near Central mall.
The shopkeeper added that the new bus stand’s design and layout further divert commuter attention, leaving many unsure about which stand is operational for specific routes.
According to a senior official from the Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC), the construction of 45 new bus stands across the city is part of a larger urban development project.
Talking to GPlus, a senior official from GMC said, “As part of the project, 12 of the old bus stands are set to be demolished."
Despite the modern facilities of the new bus stand, including LED hoardings, its proximity to the old one has led to questions about planning and effective use of public funds. While commuters continue to rely on the older bus stand, locals have called for better clarity and coordination from the authorities.
