Assam mulls to re-open 3 important ASTC bus stations after two decades

The closure of three significant Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) bus stations at Shilghat, Kaliabor Tinali, and Kuthri, previously known as British towns, has left passengers in distress for many years.

However, there is renewed hope for the reopening of these stations following the recent appointment of Keshav Mahanta as the state transport minister.

Inaugurated on December 17, 1988, by then Chief Minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, the Kaliabor Tinali bus stand was once a vital transport hub, serving the north bank of Assam as well as Ujani and Namni. The iconic red buses of the ASTC frequented this station until 2001, providing essential connectivity for the region.

The Kaliabor Tinali bus station, along with the others, was later leased to the private sector. This transition marked the beginning of their decline. The bus stand was repurposed into a hotel, leading to significant neglect and eventual closure. The nearly two-plot bus stand became a hotspot for immoral activities, including gambling and liquor dens, and the surrounding government land fell prey to encroachment.

The bus stations at Shilghat and Kuthri faced similar fates, with Shilghat turning into a dustbin and parts of Kuthri being overtaken by encroachers. The plight of commuters has reached a critical point, with the lack of these vital transport hubs severely impacting local travel and connectivity.

Local MLA and new state transport minister, Keshav Mahanta, has expressed his commitment to rejuvenating the defunct bus stations. His recent appeals have sparked optimism among the residents of Kaliabor and surrounding areas, who have long demanded the reopening of these crucial transport facilities.

As the new transport minister takes charge, there is a collective anticipation for the revival of the Shilghat, Kaliabor Tinali, and Kuthri bus stations, promising a significant improvement in the region’s transportation infrastructure and overall quality of life for its residents.