Revival Hope for ASTC Bus Stations in Assam: New Minister Aims to Restore Vital Transport Hubs
Guwahati, 25th June: The closure of three historic Assam State Transport Corporation (ASTC) bus stations at Shilghat, Kaliabor Tinali, and Kuthri, formerly bustling hubs under British-era nomenclature, has left local commuters in dire straits for years.
Originally inaugurated on December 17, 1988, by then Chief Minister Prafulla Kumar Mahanta, the Kaliabor Tinali bus stand once served as a crucial link for the north bank of Assam, connecting vital locales like Ujani and Namni. For over a decade, ASTC’s iconic red buses plied these routes, facilitating essential connectivity until operations ceased in 2001.
Subsequently, the fate of Kaliabor Tinali, along with the other stations, took a downturn as they were leased to private entities. This transition marked the beginning of their decline, with Kaliabor Tinali eventually repurposed into a hotel, leading to neglect and eventual closure. The once bustling two-plot station fell victim to illicit activities like gambling and alcohol dens, while adjacent government land faced encroachment issues.
Similar woes befell Shilghat and Kuthri bus stations, with Shilghat deteriorating into a dumping ground and Kuthri succumbing to encroachment by local settlers. The absence of these crucial transport hubs has severely hampered local travel and connectivity, exacerbating the plight of commuters.
However, a glimmer of hope emerges with the recent appointment of Keshav Mahanta as Assam’s new state transport minister. Local MLA and now minister, Mahanta, has pledged to revitalize these defunct bus stations, igniting optimism among residents of Kaliabor and neighboring areas who have long clamored for their reopening.
As Mahanta assumes his new role, there is anticipation for the revival of Shilghat, Kaliabor Tinali, and Kuthri bus stations. This move promises not only to restore vital transportation infrastructure but also to enhance the overall quality of life for residents across the region.
The initiative marks a significant step towards addressing longstanding grievances and reinvigorating Assam’s transport sector, setting the stage for improved connectivity and convenience in the state.