MARGAO: In anticipation of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s forthcoming visit to Goa on February 6, the Kadamba Bus Stand at Margao is undergoing a major facelift. Renovation work has already begun, with a significant allocation of funds to refurbish the bus stand and its surrounding areas, including road repairs.
To accommodate the renovations, the government has decided to temporarily shift the operations of the KTC bus stand to an open ground opposite the SAG artificial turf ground, owned by the Directorate of Sports and Youth Affairs. Inter-State bus services will be relocated to the SGPDA ground. Consequently, all bus services at Margao will be suspended from February 1 to 8. The Margao KTCL bus stand has been identified as a suitable location for a public gathering during PM Modi’s visit, given its capacity to accommodate a large crowd. Additional Collector I, Srinet Kothwale, stated, “Upon detailed deliberation, it was decided to temporarily shift Margao bus stand operations to the nearby open ground.”
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When Team Herald visited the bus stop, it was observed that renovation work had already commenced, with plans to demolish the existing toilets in the coming days. “Yes, the KTC bus stand at Margao will get a total facelift, and all major renovation works will be completed before the PM’s visit,” informed Kothwale.
The Margao bus stand has long been neglected, with proposed plans for a modern bus stand repeatedly delayed by the government.
The condition of roads and the bus stand shed had also deteriorated.
In response to the temporary relocation, Damu Jamuni, a private mini-bus driver, mentioned that they are yet to receive detailed information about the shifting of operations. Ulhas Tuenkar, Chairman of KTCL, confirmed that bus and other services in the area will be halted for a few days but emphasised that the government has made alternate arrangements to minimise losses for those in the bus service business. All bio-toilets will be removed during the renovations, he added.
Meanwhile, at a Republic Day event in Margao, Minister for Law and Judiciary Aleixo Sequeira said that India has gained global stature under Modi’s leadership. “The country has gained new confidence and the international community is unable to ignore India when making decisions,” he said.
