Belagavi’s long-awaited City Transport Bus Stand, inaugurated with much fanfare by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Saturday, is still not operational. The building has not yet been formally handed over by the contractor to the NWKRTC, delaying the start of bus services by a few more days.
Built under the Smart City Project at a cost of ₹49.8 crore, the new bus stand spans 2.19 acres and is equipped with modern amenities such as escalators and lifts. The structure comprises a ground floor and three upper floors.
- Ground floor: 28 bus platforms and commercial shops
- First & Second floors: Proposed departmental offices of NWKRTC
- Third floor: Additional office space and commercial use
All civil works have been completed, but officials say the Transport Board requires 2–3 days to study and familiarise itself with the functioning of the new systems before bus operations can commence.
On Sunday, many commuters mistakenly arrived at the new terminal expecting services to start, only to be redirected back to the Central Bus Station, which continues to handle around 1,365 daily trips in the city and suburbs. The central station is often overcrowded, especially during peak hours, and passengers are eagerly awaiting the diversion of some services to the new facility.
Commuters argue that the early opening of the new city bus station will significantly ease congestion at the central bus stand and provide much-needed comfort for daily travelers.
NWKRTC’s response
“We are waiting for the building to be handed over. Bus service will start from here as soon as it is in our possession. All facilities have been provided at the new stand, which will ensure better convenience for passengers in the coming days,” NWKRTC officials said.
Respected Sir
Subject: Request for City Bus Connectivity through CBT to Extension Areas
With the Central Bus Terminus (CBT) set to begin operations in its new building shortly, I would like to take this opportunity to suggest an important initiative that would greatly benefit daily commuters.
In the past, city buses used to connect various extension areas via the CBT, allowing passengers to travel seamlessly without needing to change buses. One such successful route was from Guruprasad Colony to Ramteerth Nagar, passing through the CBT. Unfortunately, this and similar routes were discontinued for reasons unknown.
I strongly recommend reintroducing such city bus services, particularly from Ramteerth Nagar to areas like Guruprasad Colony, Anagol, Vadagaon, Kumarswamy Layout, Hanuman Nagar and Channamma Nagar, via the CBT. Restoring these routes would significantly improve accessibility to both the CBT and the Railway Station, making daily commuting more efficient and affordable.
As you are aware, auto rickshaws in Belagavi charge exorbitant fares, which many citizens cannot afford. Reinstating and expanding city bus services will provide a more economical and accessible option for the public, especially for those who rely on public transport for their daily needs.
I kindly urge the concerned authorities to give this matter serious consideration and take the necessary steps to improve city bus connectivity through the new CBT.