Behind the buses: Margao KTC parking area turns hotspot for anti-social behaviour

The parking area behind the Kadamba Transport Corporation (KTC) bus stand in Margão has become a breeding ground for antisocial activities, raising serious concerns about public safety among commuters and local residents. Once a key transit hub in the city, the space has deteriorated into a zone plagued by open drinking, smoking, public indecency, prowling, verbal abuse, and even incidents of sexual harassment. Women, students, and families feel particularly vulnerable, with many reporting that they feel unsafe while passing through or using the bus stand.

According to residents, both locals and migrants routinely gather behind parked buses to drink and smoke. Passersby frequently encounter abusive language and aggressive behaviour from intoxicated individuals. The issue first gained public attention several months ago following complaints by Fatorda residents and daily commuters, but despite an initial increase in police patrolling, enforcement has since tapered off, allowing the problem to worsen.

Concerns have also been raised about the conduct of some inter-State bus drivers and conductors—primarily migrants from neighbouring states—who have allegedly been involved in unhygienic and inappropriate behaviour. Eyewitnesses report seeing them walking around half-dressed, bathing in public, and sleeping around the premises, often under the influence of alcohol. Such conduct has not only disrupted the atmosphere of the area but has also contributed to a growing sense of lawlessness.

The lack of functional street lighting has further aggravated the issue, creating poorly lit zones where such behaviour thrives unchecked. The absence of basic infrastructure and sustained enforcement has emboldened offenders, leading many to feel that the authorities have turned a blind eye to the problem. As a result, public confidence in the safety of the area has steadily declined—especially during early morning and late-night hours.

The local community is now demanding urgent and decisive action. Key demands include the installation of CCTV cameras, restoration of street lighting, and consistent, round-the-clock police patrolling to monitor and deter illegal activity. Residents stress that only sustained and visible enforcement will restore safety and dignity to this critical public space.

Without swift intervention, there is growing concern that the KTC bus stand—an essential node in Margão’s public transport network—will continue its decline, jeopardising not only commuter safety but also the broader reputation of the city.