Mulanthuruthy: Buses are leaving passengers in the lurch at Pallithazham bus stand, especially during peak hours, causing them considerable hardship. Commuters are often left stranded inside the sand as buses skip entering it without notice.

Due to the inconsistency of buses in entering the stand, passengers are now forced to brave the rain and sun waiting for buses on the road. Buses often drop passengers on the roadside and drive off, while those waiting inside the stand are left scrambling to chase after buses speeding past without stopping.

The other day, a group of school students were left waiting for over an hour and a half as buses repeatedly skipped the stand. According to a local trader, many students had to be taken back home by their parents. Commuters complain that buses, especially KSRTC services, rarely enter the stand, particularly during the morning and evening rush hours. The worst affected are students and working professionals who rely on bus services for daily commute.

Clueless passengers
Pallithazham is a key junction where the Nadakkavu highway intersects with the Chottanikkara–Thalayolaparambu Road, serving as a departure point for buses heading to Piravom, Thalayolaparambu, Thiruvankulam and Thrippunithura. Despite the strategic importance of the location, confusion reigns among passengers due to the erratic behaviour of bus services.

Even years after the bus stand became operational, buses continued to pick up and drop off passengers on the road instead of entering the stand. This caused frequent traffic snarls at the busy junction. In response, the police intervened and removed the four roadside stops that existed here and directed all buses to enter the stand. 

Initially, buses complied with the directive due to strict police monitoring. However, over time, enforcement weakened and operations began to shift according to the convenience of bus operators.

Now, passengers say they cannot wait inside the stand with any certainty that buses will stop there. Many are forced to stand by the roadside, unsure of where to board their bus.

Limited facilities
Though built at a cost of approximately ₹4.5 crore, the Pallithazham bus stand offers very little in terms of passenger comfort. A single waiting shelter, located on the eastern side of the stand, has seating for only six people. With no other adequate infrastructure, passengers are left to seek shade in front of nearby shops or stand exposed to the sun and rain.

There is a growing demand that the authorities not only ensure all buses use the stand but also improve basic amenities to make it truly functional.