Pics: Nithin Pereira

Daijiworld Media Network – Udupi (TP)

Udupi, Jun 8: Following media reports highlighting persistent roof leakage and other issues at the Udupi Service Bus Stand, Udupi MLA Yashpal Suvarna on Monday, June 8, visited the facility along with City Municipal Commissioner Mahantesh Hangaragi and other officials to inspect the situation and review grievances raised by commuters.

During the inspection, the MLA assessed the condition of the bus shelter, which has been causing inconvenience to passengers, particularly during the ongoing monsoon season. He also held discussions with officials regarding the repair and maintenance works required at the bus stand.

Speaking to the media, MLA Yashpal Suvarna said the problems at the bus stand had been brought to his notice and that he had already directed the concerned authorities last Saturday to prepare an estimate and initiate corrective measures.

“We were informed about the difficulties faced by commuters at the Udupi Bus Stand. Due to the lack of funds from the government treasury, several development works have been delayed. Today, we visited the spot to respond to the concerns of the public. The deputy commissioner is currently in-charge of the City Municipality, and development activities can be taken up only after the release of funds from the government,” he said.

The MLA also raised concerns over anti-social activities at the bus stand.

“The bus stand has become a shelter for drunkards. I have instructed the police department to take strict action. If adequate measures are not taken, we will approach higher authorities. Our aim is to maintain Udupi as a clean and safe city,” he said.

Yashpal Suvarna further stated that some individuals were making irresponsible statements without understanding the financial constraints faced by the state government. He assured that the issue had already been brought to the notice of the Deputy Commissioner and that necessary action would be taken at the earliest.

Pointing to the financial difficulties faced by the City Municipality, Yashpal Suvarna alleged that it had not received adequate funds from the state government over the past three years. He also directed the Municipal Commissioner to commence repair works within two days and take action against illegally operating shops within the bus stand premises.

City Municipal commissioner Mahantesh Hangaragi said that, following the MLA’s directions, the municipality had already prepared an estimate for temporary repairs.

“As directed by the MLA, we have worked out a temporary estimate through the City Municipality. The proposal will be placed for approval within two days, following which the work will be taken up immediately. We will ensure that commuters do not face inconvenience,” he said.

The commissioner also addressed concerns raised in media reports regarding the supply of unhygienic drinking water by some establishments operating within the bus stand premises. He said municipal health officials had inspected the establishments and issued notices seeking explanations for failing to provide clean drinking water to customers.