Bathinda residents to hold indefinite protest against bus stand relocation plans

The Bus Stand Bachao Sangharsh Committee has announced a public agitation against the construction of the new bus stand outside the city.

Beginning April 24, an indefinite protest would be held outside the DC office, followed by a march on April 26 from the current bus stand to the Fire Brigade Chowk.

This decision was taken during a meeting held on Tuesday at the Teachers' Home, where members from various social, business, trader, and transporter associations participated.

During the meeting, the plan to shift the bus stand to Malout Road was strongly opposed, being called anti-public. Baltej Wandar, convener of the Malwa Zone Transport Union, stated that the current location is ideal for public convenience and local businesses. Shifting the bus stand would create significant hardships for the public. Rather than easing traffic, relocating it would increase congestion.

He highlighted that the current bus stand is close to district courts, government hospitals, colleges, and the railway station. The speakers also emphasised that the elevation of the current bus stand prevents waterlogging. Instead of moving it, a flyover or bridge could be constructed to resolve traffic issues.

It was alleged that the Bathinda DC is keen on shifting the bus stand, leading to slogan shouting against him. Political leaders present asserted that no leader from any party has supported the decision. Social service organizations said they had lost faith in the administration.

It was decided that if the administration does not halt the shifting process, a mass movement will be launched, including dharnas (sit-ins), protests, and public demonstrations. The consensus was that the bus stand should remain at its current location and that anti-people decisions should not be taken in the name of development. All attendees pledged unity and intensified struggle.