Hyderabad: A bus stop that was once a well-planned public transport facility has now become an eyesore, with passengers at the Women’s College RTC bus stop in Koti complaining of potholes, stagnant water, broken pavements and poor maintenance.The busy stop caters to several routes connecting Koti with Dilsukhnagar, LB Nagar, Hayathnagar, Ibrahimpatnam and other parts of the city. However, passengers said basic amenities at the stop have deteriorated, making it difficult and unsafe to use.Soudh K, a frequent commuter, said he had seen several people slip and fall while trying to board buses. “People are always in a hurry to board buses and don’t notice the potholes. I have seen people lose their balance and fall here,” he said.Several potholes filled with stagnant water have formed across the premises. Passengers said they are particularly difficult to spot while boarding buses. They also pointed to a damaged and bent metal display board at the stop, saying it could injure commuters.Broken pavements, accumulated waste and a stench around the shelters have added to their concerns. Renu M, who commutes regularly, said, “The she-toilets are not functional, and there is not enough proper seating, so many women end up sitting on the kerb, which is not safe.”Meanwhile, Vijay Kumar, depot manager, Midhani, TGSRTC, said maintenance work had been taken up at the bus stop last year, but the concrete was washed away following heavy rains.“Officials from the engineering department would inspect the premises after obtaining the necessary permissions. While the GHMC could also take up the repairs, this would delay the work, prompting TGSRTC to undertake them instead,” he said, assuring that the repairs would be completed soon.Passengers also said a water kiosk that once provided drinking water had been removed after becoming non-functional. The area behind it has also been left open and is allegedly being encroached upon.Commuters questioned why the facility remains poorly maintained despite the presence of shops and multiple advertisement boards that generate revenue for the transport authorities.With heavy passenger traffic throughout the day, commuters said the bus stop requires immediate basic repairs, regular cleaning, and the restoration of essential facilities.
Md Ahmeduddin Farooqi, a teacher, said “A lot of people refuse to speak because they are unaware of their right to basic civic amenities. They consider lack of civic amenities a norm.” “Once beautifully well planned the bus stop at Koti lies neglected in pathetic condition,” he added.
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