Ranchi’s bus terminals to be upgraded to national standards

The Jharkhand government has approved the modernization and redevelopment of Ranchi’s three major bus terminals, ITI Bus Stand, Government Bus Depot, and Birsa Munda Bus Terminal at Khadgarha, at a total cost of Rs 48.72 crore. The initiative aims to bring the city’s transport hubs in line with national standards and improve infrastructure, passenger safety, and overall commuting experience.

Chief Minister Hemant Soren, while reviewing the pace of urban development projects, directed officials to prioritize improvements in public transport and civic infrastructure. Acting on his direction, Urban Development and Housing Minister Sudivya Kumar sanctioned Rs 48.72 crore for the three terminals. Of this, Rs 24.77 crore has been allocated for the ITI Bus Stand, Rs 20.19 crore for the Government Bus Depot, and Rs 3.76 crore for the Birsa Munda Bus Terminal.

Advertisement

The projects will be executed through the Jharkhand Urban Infrastructure Development Company, which has been asked to issue tenders immediately. Urban Development Principal Secretary Sunil Kumar will supervise the implementation to ensure timely completion and adherence to standards.

The ITI Bus Stand, spread over three acres, will be completely rebuilt with modern facilities. It will have a terminal building of 2,330 square metres on the ground floor and 880 square metres on the first floor, equipped with a driver’s canteen, maintenance shed, waiting lounge, ticket counters, and parking for cars and e-rickshaws. The first floor will include a restaurant, administrative office, dormitory, and landscaped areas. The terminal is expected to handle around 416 buses every day.

The Government Bus Depot, constructed in the 1960s, will be reconstructed as per Indian Roads Congress standards at a cost of Rs 20.19 crore. It will include maintenance bays, dormitories, waiting areas, food kiosks, and covered bus bays with parking for autos and cars. The upgraded depot will facilitate daily operations of about 512 buses.

The Birsa Munda Bus Terminal at Khadgarha will undergo renovation at a cost of Rs 3.76 crore. The 11.6-acre complex will include 31 bus bays, parking for 89 buses and 70 cars, dormitory facilities, restrooms, bathing areas, lighting, and security arrangements for women passengers.

Officials said the projects will create jobs during construction and boost small businesses and vendors operating near the terminals. Once completed, the three upgraded terminals will serve as cleaner, safer, and better-equipped transport hubs, marking a step toward a more organized and commuter-friendly Ranchi.