Ranchi Boosts Public Transport: Rs 48.72 Crore for Upgraded Bus Terminals

Ranchi’s transportation infrastructure is set for a significant upgrade as its three main bus terminals – ITI Bus Stand, Government Bus Depot, and Birsa Munda Bus Terminal Khadgara – are slated for modernization to meet national standards. Chief Minister Hemant Soren has emphasized accelerating urban development, leading to the approval of Rs 48.72 crore for these crucial projects. The funding breakdown allocates Rs 24.77 crore to the ITI Bus Stand, Rs 20.19 crore to the Government Bus Depot, and Rs 3.76 crore to the Birsa Munda Bus Terminal. The Urban Development and Housing Minister has tasked the principal secretary with ensuring the swift initiation of work via JUHDCO. The ITI Bus Stand will be revitalized with modern amenities across its three-acre site. The terminal building will feature a ground floor with essential services like a driver’s canteen, maintenance facilities, a guard room, a secure entry, and parking for cars, autos, and e-rickshaws. The first floor will host amenities such as a restaurant, administrative offices, ticket counters, dormitories, guest rooms with lockers, and enhanced landscaping. The terminal is designed to accommodate the daily movement of 416 buses. The Government Bus Depot, a facility dating back to the late 1960s and currently in poor condition, will undergo reconstruction costing Rs 20.19 crore, adhering to Indian Road Congress specifications. The rebuilt depot will offer improved passenger and operational facilities across two floors, including sheltered bus waiting areas and comprehensive parking solutions. It is projected to handle the daily transit of approximately 512 buses across its eight bus bays. The Birsa Munda Bus Terminal in Khadgara, spread over 11.6 acres, will be enhanced for Rs 3.76 crore. The renovation aims to improve convenience with more bus bays, ample parking for buses and cars, smart shelters, a large dormitory, rest facilities, modern sanitation, a guesthouse, improved lighting, secure boundary walls, and specialized safety features for women. Beautification through landscaping is also part of the plan. Instructions have been issued to JUHDCO to expedite the tender process and commence construction. These developments are expected to position Ranchi’s bus terminals as exemplary national models, offering passengers a safe, clean, and modern travel environment.