Kochi: The construction of the much-awaited KSRTC bus stand in Ernakulam will begin after the upcoming election. The architectural wing of the public works department has already prepared the design and plan of the new bus stand. The project now awaits approval from the ruling samiti. The entrance to the bus stand that will be built on one side of the depot in Karikkamuri will be from the side of the south railway station. 

One of the two sections of the bus stand will have an aluminium fabrication roof. The bus bay where the buses are parked would be here. Up to 28 buses could be parked in the bay at the same time. The bus bay will also have seats for the passengers and kiosks that sell tea and snacks. The double-storey concrete building will have all the facilities for the employees as well as the passengers. Air-conditioned waiting areas, toilet complex, feeding room and enquiry – reservation counters would be in the ground floor while the upper floor will have resting areas for the employees and offices. Meanwhile, the authorities expressed confidence that the construction could be completed within months once it starts. 

Currently, renovation works are progressing at the old bus stand. Drainage channels are constructed on both sides of the bus stand to avoid water-logging. Besides, the floor level of the bus stand building has been raised by one and half metres. Kota stones would be paved on the floor here. Comfortable sitting spaces would be arranged for the passengers. The renovation works are carried out using TJ Vinod’s MLA’s fund as well as financial assistance from BPCL. Meanwhile, complaints are rife that a group of hooligans are dumping waste and urinating inside the bus stand building, jeopardizing the ongoing renovation works.