Months after the horrific rape at Swargate Bus Stand, the condition at Wakdewadi ST stands in Shivajinagar in Pune has turned into a nightmare for passengers, especially during night hours, due to poor maintenance. The lack of basic facilities leaves commuters frustrated.
The corners and boundary walls of the stand are in complete shambles — with no functional lights, dumped garbage, empty alcohol bottles, open drainage water, and people urinating at the entry and exit points of the main gate inside the stand premises.
Inside the premises, a majority of lights are non-functional and obscured by overgrown tree branches, leaving the area in complete darkness and creating a haven for anti-social elements.
Alcohol bottles found in dark corners of the stand raise serious concerns about passenger safety.
No action despite multiple complaints
Making matters worse, outsiders are entering the stand freely and openly urinating on the premises, creating an unbearable stench and highly unhygienic conditions for travellers.
Sarita Deshmukh, a regular passenger, speaking to FPJ said, “The main waiting area is good, but a few drunkards sleep there. However, the lack of light at the entry and exit points and other corners of the stand is a threat for passengers. It feels unsafe, especially for women. At the very least, streetlights and security guards should be deployed at the entry and exit points.”
“Foul smell due to nuisance is a major problem. Drunk people roam around at night — is this how public transport spaces are supposed to be?” highlighted another passenger, Anil Pawar.
Despite multiple complaints, the condition of the Wakdewadi stand continues to deteriorate, reflecting the sheer negligence of the transport department. Passengers are demanding immediate action.
Shrikant Mishra, a regular visitor, speaking to FPJ, expressed, “A few months back, a rape case took place by taking advantage of a dark area. What have the authorities learnt from it? The stand needs immediate repair of the lights, proper lighting, and strict monitoring to make the premises safe.”
Arun CR, Divisional Controller of the Pune division, speaking to the Free Press Journal, said, “We have received the complaint regarding the failure of streetlights. It will be solved soon. Moreover, banners and signboards will be installed to stop the littering in the public space. We will inspect the premises, and accordingly, action will be taken.”
