When apathy hit the roof

Is it safe for passengers to take shelter on platforms at the KG Bus Station? Considering the condition of platforms at the bus station, and a portion of the roof that came crashing down a few days ago due to heavy rain, the passengers waiting to board Bengaluru Metropolitan Transport Corporation (BMTC) buses are vulnerable to accidents.

The roof of the platforms at the facility, also known as the Majestic Bus Station, was constructed more than three decades ago.

The roofs of most of the platforms have cracks all over and are set to collapse in the near future, posing danger to hundreds of commuters who wait to board BMTC buses to reach their destinations daily.

A portion of the roof of platform 18 at the KG Bus Station came crashing down due to the heavy rain on November 7. Though no casualties were reported, the collapse of the roof frightened people waiting at the time on the other platforms.

“There was no one waiting on the platform when the roof collapsed due to heavy rain,’’ said a home guard pleading anonymity.

Some of the commuters expressed disappointment over the poor maintenance of the KG Bus Station. They demand the BMTC take up maintenance works on a regular basis to ensure the roof on the platforms is safe and secure.

“Though the platforms are neat and clean, the BMTC authorities have to focus on the structure which has become weak. Water leaks from the roof whenever it rains. The roof is supposed to provide shelter for commuters during monsoon and summer. What is the use of the roof of these platforms if water leaks whenever it rains?’’ asked Kumar G, a BMTC commuter.

Demanding the BMTC to repair the damaged portion of the roof as early as possible for the benefit of commuters who wait at platform number 18, Stephen J, a BMTC commuter, suggested reconstructing or remodelling the bus station that was constructed more than 30 years ago.

“I want the BMTC to ensure this bus station is commuter-friendly by providing all amenities,’’ said Stephen. Meanwhile, BMTC managing director Sathyavathi G said engineers have visited the spot and are making estimates to repair the collapsed roof.

“The damaged roof will be fixed within a few days. We have sent a proposal to the Directorate of Urban Land Transport to help us to redesign the KG Bus Station. It will take time. As of now, our engineers will take measures to repair the damaged roof,’’ BMTC MD said.