Ghaziabad's Bus Depot Modernization Project Hits Roadblocks
A major infrastructure initiative to upgrade three key bus depots in Ghaziabad, originally announced in 2022 by the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC), has encountered significant delays, with construction yet to commence at two of the three designated locations more than three years after the plan's unveiling.
Stalled Progress at Key Terminuses
The ambitious redevelopment scheme, designed to transform the aging bus facilities into contemporary, multi-storeyed transport hubs equipped with modern passenger amenities, was initially slated for completion within a 24-month timeframe. While work has progressed at the Old Bus Adda, where construction began last year, the projects at Kaushambi and Sahibabad bus terminuses remain in a state of limbo.
"The work on Old Bus Adda started last year, but we are yet to commence construction at Kaushambi and Sahibabad," revealed a senior UPSRTC official. "So far, we have only cleared trees that were obstructing the work at the two depots."
Transit-Oriented Development Policy Complications
According to officials, the primary cause of the delay stems from necessary recalibrations triggered by Uttar Pradesh's Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Policy of 2022. Both the Kaushambi and Sahibabad depots were subsequently brought under the TOD influence zone due to their strategic proximity to rapid rail and metro corridors.
Under this policy framework, areas within a 1.5-kilometer radius of such transit corridors become eligible for enhanced development intensity. The Kaushambi inter-state bus terminal is situated adjacent to both Kaushambi and Anand Vihar Metro stations, and in close proximity to the Anand Vihar station of the Namo Bharat rapid rail network. Similarly, the Sahibabad depot is located near the Sahibabad rapid rail station. Collectively, these two depots manage an estimated daily footfall of approximately 40,000 passengers.
Revised Development Parameters
The implementation of the TOD policy substantially increased the permissible floor area ratio (FAR) in these zones to 4, a significant jump from the 1.5 FAR that was applicable when the original depot redevelopment plans were formulated in 2022. While this higher FAR allowance enables the construction of taller, multi-storeyed structures, it also expands the overall scope of development, necessitating fresh consultations with various planning agencies.
"Since Kaushambi and Sahibabad fall within the TOD zone, the delay was largely due to reaching a consensus with the Ghaziabad Development Authority and the National Capital Region Transport Corporation on the applicable FAR and development norms," explained the official.
Enhanced Project Scope and Timelines
The revised FAR is anticipated to fundamentally alter the scale and nature of both projects. Beyond the originally envisioned two-storey depots, the TOD framework now permits the integration of commercial complexes, shopping malls, food outlets, and hotels within the depot premises.
Last year, the Uttar Pradesh government formally approved an FAR of 4 for both depots under the TOD policy. UPSRTC officials have indicated that construction could potentially commence by March, pending the issuance of the "right to work" permit to the private developer and the acquisition of all statutory no-objection certificates. From that point forward, the projects, which are being executed under a public-private partnership (PPP) model, are projected to reach completion within a two-year period.
Project Specifications and Broader Context
The redevelopment of the 24,284 square meter Kaushambi depot is estimated to cost approximately Rs 261 crore, while the 15,000 square meter Sahibabad depot will require an investment of about Rs 161 crore. The Old Bus Adda project, spanning over 10,000 square meters, is being developed at a cost of Rs 62 crore. These three Ghaziabad depots are part of a larger state-wide initiative to modernize a total of 23 bus depots across Uttar Pradesh.
Vision for Modern Transport Hubs
UPSRTC has outlined that the upgraded depots will be designed to emulate airport terminals, featuring:
- Advanced, modern ticketing systems
- Spacious, comfortable waiting areas
- Integrated food and retail facilities
Plans also include the creation of seamless pedestrian connectivity to nearby rapid rail stations at Sahibabad and Ghaziabad, enhancing multi-modal transit integration.
Environmental and Operational Drivers
The impetus to upgrade these depots is also strongly motivated by environmental considerations. Located in densely populated urban areas, the heavy movement of buses contributes significantly to local air pollution. This has prompted directives from the National Green Tribunal to improve infrastructure and optimize traffic flow.
Officials have confirmed that the redevelopment will incorporate dedicated lanes for bus movement and will support the gradual transition to electric bus fleets. These measures are expected to alleviate congestion and reduce harmful emissions in the surrounding neighborhoods. Currently, UPSRTC operates approximately 800 buses daily from its three Ghaziabad depots.
